What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
provisional
Example
The company made a provisional offer of employment, pending a background check. [provisional: adjective]
Example
The team implemented a provisional plan to address the issue until a permanent solution could be found. [provisional: adjective]
anticipatory
Example
The students felt anticipatory excitement as they prepared for their graduation ceremony. [anticipatory: adjective]
Example
The company took anticipatory measures to prepare for the upcoming busy season. [anticipatory: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Provisional is more commonly used than anticipatory in everyday language. Provisional is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while anticipatory is less common and has a more specific connotation.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between provisional and anticipatory?
Both provisional and anticipatory are neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
