English Reference
adjective

transitional

adj.
US /tɹænˈsɪʃənəɫ/ UK /tɹænsˈɪʃənəl/ tran·si·tion·al

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate

    relating to a period of change from one state or condition to another.

    relating to or characteristic of a process of transition between two states or stages.

    Simple

    The country is currently in a transitional period as it moves toward democracy.

    In context

    The fossil record provides clear evidence of transitional forms that bridge the evolutionary gap between aquatic and terrestrial species.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate Formal

    used for a short time until a permanent change is finished.

    temporary or provisional; existing only until a new system or structure is fully implemented.

    Simple

    The city council set up a transitional housing program for families in need.

    In context

    A transitional government was established to oversee the administration until national elections could be held the following year.

  3. 03 C1 Advanced Technical

    a style that mixes old and new ideas, especially in furniture or buildings.

    denoting a style that combines elements of both traditional and modern design.

    Simple

    She chose a transitional sofa that looks good with both her antique chairs and modern rug.

    In context

    The architect's transitional approach successfully integrated the historic facade with a minimalist glass interior.

Usage transitional justice · transitional period

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.

Phys.org· 24 Aug 2026

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.

ScienceDaily· 8 Jun 2026
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated