Definitions
- Referring to something that is temporary or subject to change. - Describing a decision or agreement that is not final and may be revised later. - Talking about a plan or arrangement that is made with the understanding that it may need to be altered in the future.
- Referring to something that is uncertain or not fully confirmed. - Describing a plan or idea that is being considered but has not been finalized. - Talking about a statement or opinion that is expressed with hesitation or doubt.
List of Similarities
- 1Both words describe a level of uncertainty or lack of finality.
- 2Both words can be used to express hesitation or doubt.
- 3Both words are adverbs that modify verbs or verb phrases.
What is the difference?
- 1Degree of certainty: Provisionally implies a higher degree of certainty than tentatively. Something that is provisional is likely to happen, but may still be subject to change. Something that is tentative is more uncertain and may not happen at all.
- 2Type of uncertainty: Provisionally suggests that there may be external factors that could affect the outcome, while tentatively suggests that there may be internal factors that could affect the outcome.
- 3Timing: Provisionally refers to something that is temporary or subject to change in the future, while tentatively refers to something that is being considered or planned in the present.
- 4Usage: Provisionally is more commonly used in formal contexts such as business or legal agreements, while tentatively is more commonly used in everyday conversation.
- 5Connotation: Provisionally has a more positive connotation, suggesting that something is likely to happen, while tentatively has a more negative connotation, suggesting that something is uncertain or may not happen.
Remember this!
Provisionally and tentatively are both adverbs that describe a level of uncertainty or lack of finality. However, provisionally implies a higher degree of certainty and refers to something that is temporary or subject to change in the future, while tentatively suggests a lower degree of certainty and refers to something that is being considered or planned in the present.
