# transitional

/tɹænˈsɪʃənəɫ/ (US) · /tɹænsˈɪʃənəl/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/transitional
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Senses

### 1. relating to change

adjective · CEFR B2

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

For teachers: 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.

### 2. temporary

adjective · CEFR B2 · Formal

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

For teachers: 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.

### 3. art/design style

adjective · CEFR C1 · Technical

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

For teachers: 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.

## Examples

- The country is currently in a transitional period.
- The company appointed a transitional manager to oversee operations while they searched for a permanent CEO.
- Fossil records provide evidence of transitional species that bridge the evolutionary gap between aquatic ancestors and their terrestrial descendants.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.