a temporary answer

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a temporary answer" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a solution or response that is not permanent and may change or be replaced in the future. Example: "While we work on a more permanent solution, please consider this a temporary answer to your question."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

Israel insists that the barrier is a temporary answer to suicide bombers, and that any final border with a future Palestine will be negotiated.

The New York Times

Farrell is seen by most as a temporary answer at No12 while we wait for Manu Tuilagi but we are always waiting for Tuilagi so we need an answer that works on its own terms.

The Guardian - Sport

While the debate rages on, Lee has a temporary answer. .

Los Angeles Times

For the author himself, drugs were only ever a temporary answer.

Vice

These are typically only a temporary answer and not a permanent solution.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

The answer to that question still eludes me but I've found a temporary solution to the problem.

Huffington Post

The local police are a temporary solution.

The New York Times - Magazine

And it's only a temporary solution.

Science Magazine

Liposuction is a temporary solution.

WikiHow

Spray insecticide for a temporary solution.

WikiHow

But they are just a temporary solution.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "a temporary answer", ensure that the context clearly indicates the reasons for the lack of permanence and the expectation of a more definitive solution in the future. This provides clarity and manages expectations effectively.

Common error

Avoid presenting "a temporary answer" as a final solution. Clearly state that it is a short-term measure and outline the steps being taken to find a more lasting resolution. Failure to do so can lead to misunderstandings and distrust.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a temporary answer" functions as a noun phrase, where 'temporary' modifies 'answer'. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's used to describe a solution or response that is not permanent.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a temporary answer" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe a short-term or non-permanent solution. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage spans various contexts, including news, wiki articles, and scientific documents, though it is relatively rare. When using this phrase, it's important to clarify the temporary nature of the solution and outline steps towards a more lasting resolution. Alternatives include "a short-term fix" and "a provisional solution", each with slightly different nuances. Remember that presenting "a temporary answer" as a final solution can lead to misunderstandings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

A short-term fix

Emphasizes the limited duration of the solution.

A provisional solution

Highlights the tentative and subject-to-change nature.

A stopgap measure

Suggests the action is temporary until a better solution is found.

A makeshift resolution

Implies the solution is created quickly and is not ideal.

An interim response

Focuses on the response being temporary during a transition period.

A palliative measure

Highlights that the problem is treated, not solved.

A band-aid solution

Suggests a superficial fix that doesn't address the root cause.

A quick fix

Highlights the speed of the solution, implying it might not be thorough.

A passing response

Highlights that the response will not last long.

A transitional solution

Highlights that the solution will be used only during a specific period.

FAQs

How can I use "a temporary answer" in a sentence?

You can use "a temporary answer" to describe a solution or response that is not intended to be permanent. For example, "The new policy is "a temporary answer" to the budget shortfall, but we need to find a long-term solution."

What phrases are similar to "a temporary answer"?

Similar phrases include "a short-term fix", "a provisional solution", or "a stopgap measure". The best choice depends on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use "a temporary answer"?

It's appropriate when you need to address a problem quickly but don't yet have a permanent solution, or when the situation is expected to change in the near future. Be sure to acknowledge the lack of permanence and set expectations accordingly.

What's the difference between "a temporary answer" and "a permanent solution"?

"A temporary answer" is a short-term fix or response, while "a permanent solution" is intended to resolve the issue completely and indefinitely. Use "a temporary answer" when you need immediate relief, but a full resolution is not yet available.