PROVISIONAL Synonyms: 59 Similar and Opposite Words

provisional

adjective

prə-ˈvizh-nəl

Definition of provisional

as in interim

intended to last, continue, or serve for a limited time will form a provisional government until a new leader can be elected

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in temporary

serving in a position for the time being he was appointed provisional executor of the industrialist's vast estate

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of provisional However, same-day registration will also be available by using a provisional ballot. — Emily Hallas, The Washington Examiner, 30 Sep. 2026 The provisional executive order comes into force immediately but will need congressional approval within 120 days to remain in effect. — ABC News, 25 Sep. 2026 Neighborhood residents even decided to preserve the park’s popular graffiti walls that, with the provisional approval from Denver Parks & Recreation, can still be added to. — John Wenzel, Denver Post, 25 Sep. 2026 If your voter registration record cannot be found, then you may be issued a provisional ballot. — Kori Rumore, Chicago Tribune, 24 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for provisional

Recent Examples of Synonyms for provisional

Adjective

The Union have climbed from last place in the Eastern Conference at the World Cup break to sixth under interim coach Ryan Richter, who took over after Bradley Carnell was let go.

— ABC News, ABC News, 17 Oct. 2026
Napoli replaces Guillermo Olmedillo, who had served as interim village manager and is staying on as a land use, zoning and infrastructure consultant.

— Miami Herald, Miami Herald, 17 Oct. 2026

Definition of interim

Adjective

Reyes said the 24-hour temporary order could be extended to 14 days if necessary.

— Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 13 Oct. 2026
Reyes had issued a one-day temporary restraining order early Monday morning ahead of the hearing, so her order on Tuesday extends that ban for two weeks.

— Molly Parks, The Washington Examiner, 13 Oct. 2026

Definition of temporary

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provision

provisional

provisionary

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“Provisional.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/provisional. Accessed 21 Oct. 2026.

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Synonyms of provisional

adjective

Example Sentences

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