Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Relating to or characteristic of a transition: Describing something that involves, connects, or occurs during a change from one state, condition, place, or form to another.
   • Intermediate or temporary: Serving as a bridge or link between two more stable or defined stages.

Usage

• The word "transitional" is used to describe periods, phases, objects, or arrangements that are not permanent but exist as part of a process of change.
• It is commonly used before nouns (e.g., , ) or after linking verbs like "be" (e.g., ).

Examples

• Adjective:
  • The country formed a transitional government to oversee elections.
  • Adolescence is a transitional stage between childhood and adulthood.
  • We are in a transitional period where old methods are being replaced by new ones.
  • The architect designed a transitional space connecting the old wing to the new addition.

Advanced Usage

• "transitional object": In psychology, an item (like a blanket or toy) that provides comfort to a young child during the transition from dependence to independence.
  • The child's teddy bear was an important transitional object.
• Used in academic and formal writing to describe processes in history, politics, biology, or design.
  • The fossil shows transitional features between reptiles and birds.

Variants and Related Words

• Transition (n): The process or a period of changing from one state or condition to another.
  • The transition from analog to digital broadcasting was complex.
• Transitionally (adv): In a way that relates to or involves transition.
  • The team is working transitionally to implement the new system.

Synonyms

• Interim: Temporary and intended to be used until something permanent exists.
• Intermediate: Coming between two things in time, place, order, or character.
• Provisional: Arranged or existing for the present, possibly to be changed later.

Antonyms

• Permanent: Lasting or intended to last indefinitely without change.
• Fixed: Securely placed or fastened; not subject to change.
• Definitive: (Of a conclusion or agreement) done or reached decisively and with authority.

Related Phrases

• Transitional period/phase/stage: A specific time frame during which a change is occurring.
  • The first six months are considered a transitional phase for new employees.
• Transitional arrangement: A temporary system or agreement put in place during a change.
  • A transitional arrangement was made to ensure continuous service.

Adjective

1. of or relating to or characterized by transition
   • adolescence is a transitional stage between childhood and adulthood