What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
transitory
Example
The beauty of the sunset is transitory and will soon fade away. [transitory: adjective]
Example
The company is going through a transitory phase as it transitions to a new business model. [transitory: noun]
temporary
Example
I'm staying in a temporary apartment until I find a permanent place to live. [temporary: adjective]
Example
The company hired a temporary worker to fill in for the regular employee who is on leave. [temporary: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Temporary is more commonly used than transitory in everyday language. Temporary is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while transitory is less common and is often used in more formal contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between transitory and temporary?
Transitory is typically associated with a more formal tone, while temporary is more versatile and can be employed in both formal and informal contexts.
