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Transitory: meaning, definitions and examples

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transitory

 

[ˈtrænzɪtɔːri ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

temporary

Lasting only for a short time; transient. Not permanent or lasting.

Synonyms

ephemeral, fleeting, temporary.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
transitory

Often used in formal or academic contexts to describe something that is not permanent and will likely pass quickly.

  • The storm was severe, but thankfully transitory.
  • Emotions can be transitory, changing from one moment to the next.
temporary

Used to describe something that is meant to last for a limited period of time, often implying that something more permanent will follow.

  • They hired temporary workers for the holiday season.
  • This is a temporary solution until we find a better one.
fleeting

Commonly used in everyday speech to refer to moments or experiences that are very short-lived.

  • She caught a fleeting glimpse of a shooting star.
  • Their happiness was fleeting, disappearing almost as soon as it arrived.
ephemeral

Best used to describe something that lasts for a very short period of time, often with a sense of being delicate or fleeting.

  • The beauty of the sunset was ephemeral, gone within minutes.
  • Ephemeral flowers bloom and wither in just one day.

Examples of usage

  • The transitory nature of fame
  • His transitory stay in the city
  • The transitory beauty of a sunset
Context #2 | Adjective

changing

Passing with time; not permanent; transient.

Synonyms

ephemeral, evanescent, transient.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
transitory

Used to describe something temporary that doesn't last long. It can refer to both tangible and intangible things.

  • Our happiness in life is often transitory, affected by unpredictable events
evanescent

Describes something that quickly fades away or vanishes, giving a sense of a brief, disappearing quality. It's often used in a more poetic or literary context.

  • The evanescent glow of fireflies filled the summer night
ephemeral

Applies to objects or experiences that are short-lived and primarily emphasizes their fleeting or transient nature. Often used in artistic or poetic contexts.

  • The beauty of a sunset is ephemeral, vanishing within minutes
transient

Widely used to denote something lasting for a very short time, especially in contexts involving movement or change. It can be applied to people, events, or states.

  • The transient nature of the migratory birds makes sightings rare and special

Examples of usage

  • The transitory nature of emotions
  • The transitory phases of life

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • Originates from the Latin word 'transitorius', meaning 'passing over or going across'.
  • The prefix 'trans-' used here suggests movement or change, highlighting the temporary nature of the word.
  • The word entered the English language in the late 15th century, often used in philosophical and literary contexts.

Philosophy

  • Many philosophical teachings emphasize the importance of recognizing that most aspects of life are fleeting.
  • Transitory moments, like childhood or a beautiful sunset, are often seen as reminders to appreciate the present.
  • Existentialist views consider the transitory nature of life as a fundamental aspect of human experience.

Literature

  • Writers often explore themes of transitory love, seasons, and moments to evoke emotion and reflection.
  • Classic poetry frequently employs the idea of temporariness to contrast with the ideals of permanence and immortality.
  • In modern novels, characters might face transitory relationships, symbolizing the change and unpredictability of life.

Psychology

  • Understanding that feelings and situations are often transitory can help people cope with difficult emotions.
  • Cognitive behavioral therapy emphasizes recognizing the temporary nature of negative thoughts to reduce anxiety.
  • Mindfulness practices encourage living in the moment and acknowledging the transitory nature of thoughts and experiences.

Art

  • Many art forms explore the concept of transitory beauty, such as installations that change over time or ephemeral art.
  • Performance art often captures fleeting moments, emphasizing that the experience is unique and cannot be replicated.
  • Photographers may seek to capture transitory moments to freeze them in time, highlighting their beauty and impermanence.

Translations

Translations of the word "transitory" in other languages:

🇵🇹 transitório

🇮🇳 क्षणिक

🇩🇪 vorübergehend

🇮🇩 sementara

🇺🇦 тимчасовий

🇵🇱 przejściowy

🇯🇵 一時的

🇫🇷 transitoire

🇪🇸 transitorio

🇹🇷 geçici

🇰🇷 일시적인

🇸🇦 عابر

🇨🇿 přechodný

🇸🇰 prechodný

🇨🇳 短暂的

🇸🇮 prehodno

🇮🇸 skammvinnur

🇰🇿 уақытша

🇬🇪 გარდამავალი

🇦🇿 müvəqqəti

🇲🇽 transitorio

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,389, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.