Word
transitional
Phoneticstran·si·tion·al, stress on the second syllable
US/tɹænˈsɪʃənəɫ/
UK/tɹænsˈɪʃənəl/
Definitions
01relating to change
B2 · Upper Intermediate
adj. relating to a period of change from one state or condition to another.
adj. relating to or characteristic of a process of transition between two states or stages.
“The country is currently in a transitional period as it moves toward democracy.”
“The fossil record provides clear evidence of transitional forms that bridge the evolutionary gap between aquatic and terrestrial species.”
Synonyms
02temporary
B2 · Upper Intermediate Formal
adj. used for a short time until a permanent change is finished.
adj. temporary or provisional; existing only until a new system or structure is fully implemented.
“The city council set up a transitional housing program for families in need.”
“A transitional government was established to oversee the administration until national elections could be held the following year.”
Synonyms
03art/design style
C1 · Advanced Technical
adj. a style that mixes old and new ideas, especially in furniture or buildings.
adj. denoting a style that combines elements of both traditional and modern design.
“She chose a transitional sofa that looks good with both her antique chairs and modern rug.”
“The architect's transitional approach successfully integrated the historic facade with a minimalist glass interior.”
Collocations
Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “transitional” in context.
Adjective
01. transitional period
“The company is currently in a transitional period as it moves its operations to a new headquarters.”
adj + noun
02. transitional justice
Real-World Examples
“Carbon-14 dating ultimately confirmed that the helmets belonged to a poorly documented design from a transitional period in military technology that left no direct descendants.” “In a few months, the start of the school year would also mark the first year of public transitional kindergarten (or TK) for all California 4-year-olds, completing its expansion across the state.” Word family
ADJECTIVE
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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QR code
englishreference.com/q/transitional