as a stopgap measure

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as a stopgap measure" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe a temporary solution or action taken to address a problem until a more permanent solution can be implemented. Example: "We implemented a new software system as a stopgap measure while we work on developing a more comprehensive solution."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Classrooms are already packed, she said, and modular classrooms have been erected as a stopgap measure.

The New York Times

Mr. Faizi described the local police forces as a stopgap measure.

The New York Times

However, Mr. Diop said any incremental price increase should be viewed as a stopgap measure.

The New York Times

The stimulus was always thought of as a stopgap measure until the private sector could recover.

The Guardian - Opinion

The moratorium was intended as a stopgap measure to give city officials time to establish permanent regulations.

The New York Times

The Andean preferences and the Trade Adjustment Assistance program were extended until Feb. 12 as a stopgap measure.

The New York Times

In other words, yes to the 100-plus peers as a stopgap measure in the name of fairness.

The Guardian

The Philippine government began helping workers go abroad as a stopgap measure to address high unemployment in the 1970s.

The New York Times

As a stopgap measure, Otsuchi announced in late April that it planned to hire 270 townspeople to remove debris.

The New York Times

Narcan, which can reverse the effects of a heroin overdose, is widely viewed as a stopgap measure.

The Washington Post

They see it as a stopgap measure that gives the world more time to move to a cleaner energy system.

MIT Technology Review

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "as a stopgap measure", clearly state what the permanent or long-term solution will be. This provides context and avoids confusion about the temporary nature of the current action.

Common error

Avoid presenting a solution implemented "as a stopgap measure" as a final solution. This can lead to mistrust and dissatisfaction if the underlying problem is not fully addressed later.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as a stopgap measure" functions as an adverbial phrase. It modifies a verb or clause to indicate the temporary nature of an action or solution. It explains how or why something is being done.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

74%

Academia

14%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Science & Research

3%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "as a stopgap measure" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to describe a temporary solution implemented until a more permanent one is available. Ludwig AI identifies the phrase as correct and appropriate for written English. It appears most frequently in news and media, academic, and encyclopedia contexts, suggesting a relatively neutral to formal register. When using this phrase, ensure you clearly indicate the intended long-term solution to avoid any confusion about the temporary nature of the current approach. Related phrases include "as an interim solution" and "as a temporary expedient".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as an interim solution

Replaces "stopgap" with "interim", emphasizing the temporary nature of the solution.

as a temporary workaround

Focuses on bypassing an immediate obstacle or issue.

as a temporary expedient

Substitutes "measure" with "expedient", highlighting the practicality and convenience of the temporary solution.

as an ad hoc solution

Highlights that the solution is specifically created to solve a problem at hand and not meant as a permanent option.

as a provisional arrangement

Emphasizes the conditional and unconfirmed nature of the measure.

as an acting measure

Refers to a solution that is currently in effect but potentially will be changed in the near future.

as a short-term fix

A more informal alternative, focusing on the quick and immediate resolution.

as a makeshift solution

Highlights the often improvised or imperfect nature of the temporary solution.

as a band-aid approach

An idiomatic expression suggesting a superficial or incomplete fix.

for the time being

A simple phrase indicating a temporary state, lacking the explicit problem-solving connotation.

FAQs

How can I use "as a stopgap measure" in a sentence?

Use "as a stopgap measure" to indicate a temporary solution implemented until a more permanent fix is available. For example, "We're using this older software "as a stopgap measure" while the new system is being developed".

What phrases are similar in meaning to "as a stopgap measure"?

Similar phrases include "as an interim solution", "as a temporary expedient", or "as a short-term fix". These all suggest a temporary approach.

Is "as a stopgap measure" formal or informal?

"As a stopgap measure" is generally considered neutral to formal. While suitable for professional writing, more informal alternatives like "as a band-aid approach" exist for casual contexts.

When should I not use "as a stopgap measure"?

Avoid using "as a stopgap measure" if the solution being described is intended to be permanent or if you are unsure when or if a permanent solution will be implemented. In those cases, it may be misleading.