Temporally vs. Temporarily — What's the Difference?
By Maham Liaqat & Urooj Arif — Updated on February 23, 2024
"Temporally" relates to time or the temporal order of events, often discussing the timing or sequence. "Temporarily" refers to something lasting for only a limited period, emphasizing the transient or short-term nature of a situation or state.
Difference Between Temporally and Temporarily
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
"Temporally" is an adverb that pertains to time or the sequential aspects of events. It is used to discuss how things relate to each other in time, such as their order, timing, or duration in a broader sense. For example, when analyzing a story, one might examine how the narrative unfolds temporally, looking at the sequence of events or how time influences the plot.
"Temporarily" on the other hand, signifies that something is not permanent or is intended to last only for a short duration. It is commonly used to describe situations, conditions, or solutions that are provisional or meant to serve until a more permanent arrangement is made. For instance, a sign stating "Temporarily Closed" indicates that a place is shut but will reopen.
The primary distinction between the two terms lies in their focus: "temporally" deals with the concept of time in a general or abstract sense, often in relation to order or sequence, while "temporarily" emphasizes the temporary nature of an action, state, or condition, suggesting that it is expected to change after a certain period.
Understanding the difference is crucial for clear communication, particularly in contexts where the nuances of time are significant, such as in historical analysis, project planning, or describing the duration of certain conditions or measures.
Comparison Chart
Definition
Relating to time or the sequence of time.
For a limited period; not permanent.
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Usage
In philosophical, historical, or scientific discussions.
In everyday language for practical, short-term situations.
Context
Discussing chronology, timing, or the concept of time.
Indicating transient states or short-term conditions.
Connotation
Abstract, conceptual understanding of time.
Practical, immediate understanding of temporary conditions.
Examples
Analyzing events temporally to understand their progression.
Living temporarily in a rental apartment during renovations.
Compare with Definitions
Temporally
Pertaining to the nature or sequence of time.
The narrative in the novel shifts temporally, moving between past and present.
Temporarily
For a limited time; not permanently.
The office is temporarily closed for maintenance.
Temporally
In the context of timing and duration.
The study focused on the temporally varying patterns of climate change.
Temporarily
Used to describe short-term conditions or arrangements.
She's temporarily staying with friends.
Temporally
Often found in academic or technical discussions.
Philosophers debate the temporally bound nature of human existence.
Temporarily
Common in everyday language and practical scenarios.
Temporarily out of service signs were placed on the machines.
Temporally
Used to describe chronological relationships.
Temporally, the Renaissance preceded the Enlightenment.
Temporarily
Practical, relating to immediate circumstances.
The road will be temporarily blocked during the parade.
Temporally
Relates to the abstract concept of time.
The events are temporally disconnected but thematically related.
Temporarily
Indicates a change or state is not lasting.
The shop is temporarily relocating to the main street.
Temporally
In a temporal manner; secularly.
Temporarily
Lasting, used, serving, or enjoyed for a limited time.
Temporally
With regard to temporal order;
Temporally processed
Temporarily
For a limited period of time; not permanently.
Temporarily
In a temporary manner; for a time.
Temporarily
For a limited time only; not permanently;
He will work here temporarily
He was brought out of retirement temporarily
A power failure temporarily darkened the town
Common Curiosities
Can something be both temporary and temporal?
Yes, a temporary state is inherently temporal (related to time), but "temporal" has broader applications beyond just being temporary.
Is "temporally" a common term in everyday conversation?
No, it's more common in academic or philosophical discussions about time.
Does "temporally" mean the same as "over time"?
Yes, "temporally" can mean over time, especially when discussing the sequence or timing of events.
How do I know whether to use "temporally" or "temporarily"?
Use "temporally" when discussing the concept or sequence of time, and "temporarily" for situations that are not permanent.
Can a business operate temporally?
The term you'd likely use is "temporarily," unless you're discussing the timing or sequence of its operations.
Can something be temporarily permanent?
This would be an oxymoron, as "temporarily" and "permanent" are opposites in terms of duration.
Is "temporally" used in science?
Yes, especially in fields like physics, astronomy, and history, where the timing and sequence of events are significant.
Does "temporally" relate to the timing of a process?
Yes, it can describe the timing or sequence within a process or event.
Can a situation be both temporally complex and temporary?
Yes, a situation can be complex in terms of timing (temporally complex) and not long-lasting (temporary).
Can a decision be temporally influenced?
Yes, if it's influenced by timing or the sequence of events, it can be described as temporally influenced.
Is "temporarily" always related to a short duration?
Generally, yes, it implies a limited duration, but the exact length can vary.
Can a building be temporally designed?
This phrase is unusual; "temporally" doesn't typically apply to physical design but to the timing or sequence of events.
Is a temporary worker also a temporal worker?
While "temporary" is correct, "temporal" in this context might be confusing as it more broadly relates to time, not just temporary situations.
Are "temporally" and "chronologically" interchangeable?
In many contexts, they can be, especially when discussing the sequence of events.
How does "temporally" relate to historical studies?
It's used to discuss the timing, sequence, and duration of historical events and periods.
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Written by
Maham Liaqat
Co-written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
