provisional
- 01 B2 Upper Intermediate
adj.temporary and intended to be replaced by something permanent later.
adj.provided or serving for the time being only; existing as a temporary arrangement to be replaced by a permanent equivalent.
Simple“We have a provisional date for the wedding, but we might change it.”
In context“The committee reached a provisional agreement, though several clauses remain subject to further negotiation before the final contract is signed.”
- 02 C1 Advanced
n.a temporary version of something, like a stamp or a set of false teeth.
n.a temporary or interim item, such as a postage stamp issued before an official release or a temporary dental appliance.
Simple“The dentist fitted a provisional while the permanent crown was being made.”
In context“Collectors often seek out rare provisionals issued by local postmasters during periods of civil unrest or supply shortages.”
Synonyms - 03 C2 Proficiency
n.a member of a specific Irish political and military group.
n.a member of the Provisional Irish Republican Army.
Simple“The documentary interviewed a former provisional about the peace process.”
In context“Historical accounts of the Troubles often distinguish between the actions of the Provisionals and other paramilitary factions active at the time.”
“Before Friday’s vote, the government had been operating under a provisional budget mechanism to keep paying civil servants and funding welfare programmes.”
“Ofwat has given provisional approval for 13 water companies to charge customers more to pay for investments.”