provisional - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
provisional Word Meanings
- temporary or subject to change
- used until something permanent is established
- providing for future needs
provisional Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
provisional Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/prəˈvɪʒ.ən.əl/
US
/prəˈvɪʒ.ən.əl/
provisional Word Etymology
Root decomposition: 'provisio' (Latin for provision) + 'al' (suffix). Historical origin: from Latin 'provisio', through Old French 'provisionnel' to English. Memory image: Imagine a temporary tent set up for a festival that serves as a provisional shelter until the permanent venue is ready; it symbolizes change and adaptability.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Provisional is an adjective describing something intended to be temporary or subject to change until a more permanent arrangement is in place. It is used for plans, arrangements, or measures that are put in place to address an immediate need, with the understanding that they may be revised later. The word also conveys a sense of precaution or suggests that a decision will be finalized later. Its Latin roots hint at provision and preparation, while in everyday use it often appears in contexts like provisional licenses, provisional permits, or provisional schedules that may be updated as circumstances evolve.
Usage Reminders
- 1) Reserve provisional for plans or permissions that can change. 2) Pair with nouns like license, permit, schedule, or arrangement. 3) Don’t use provisional when something is already permanent. 4) Distinguish from tentative (unclear) and temporary (short-term in time). 5) Check context: legal, academic, or policy language often uses provisional. 6) Watch spelling: not provision or provisionary.
Common Misconceptions
- Provisional means certain or permanent. (incorrect: it means temporary and changeable)
- Provisional and tentative are exactly the same. (incorrect: provisional emphasizes current validity; tentative emphasizes doubt)
- Provisional is only about documents like licenses. (incorrect: it can describe plans, schedules, or measures)
- Provisional equals provisional license forever. (incorrect: it may be updated or replaced)
- Provisional sounds formal in all contexts. (incorrect: usage varies by context; some contexts use temporary or interim)
Thinking Differences
English speakers often view provisional as a formal, official placeholder that will be replaced by a final version. Learners must distinguish it from tentative (uncertain) and temporary (short-term in time).
Learning Tips
- Use provisional with plans, licenses, or schedules that may change
- Pair with concrete nouns like license, permit, schedule, or arrangement
- Contrast with permanent by asking 'will this be permanent?'
- Practice with contexts: government, events, academic settings
- Check collocations: provisional license, provisional timetable, provisional measure
- Avoid confusing with provision (the act of providing) or provisionary (rare form)
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'provisional'?
A.Fast
B.Permanent
C.Temporary
D.Healthy
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'provisional' used correctly?
A.The beach was so beautiful and provisional.
B.She bought a new car to be provisional for her vacation.
C.The mountain was a provisional sight at sunset.
D.He had a provisional plan to stay at the hotel.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is a synonym for 'provisional'?
A.Permanent
B.Temporary
C.Lasting
D.Enduring
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is an antonym for 'provisional'?
A.Continuous
B.Everlasting
C.Stable
D.Permanent
Step 5: Mastery
How would you use the word 'provisional' in a real-life context?
A.I made a provisional appointment with the dentist.
B.The company offered me a provisional promotion.
C.We have a provisional reservation at the restaurant.
D.She signed a provisional contract for the house.
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