What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
provisory
Example
The company made a provisory offer of employment until the background check is complete. [provisory: adjective]
Example
The provisory measures taken by the government were necessary to address the immediate crisis. [provisory: noun]
provisional
Example
The team's provisional plan for the project was subject to revision based on new information. [provisional: adjective]
Example
The provisional government was established to maintain order during the transition period. [provisional: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Provisional is more commonly used than provisory in everyday language. Provisional is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while provisory is less common and more specific to legal or formal contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between provisory and provisional?
Both provisory and provisional are formal words that are often used in legal or official contexts. However, provisory may be perceived as more cautious or hesitant, while provisional may suggest a more proactive or strategic approach.
