but in the interim

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "but in the interim" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate a temporary situation or period while waiting for something else to happen or be resolved. Example: "The project is on hold for now, but in the interim, we can focus on other tasks to keep the team productive."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

But in the interim, about 20 squatters had moved in".

The New York Times

"But in the interim," she said, "God is good".

The New York Times

The apartments are for sale but, in the interim, they can be rented.

The New York Times

But in the interim both sides must show that this dream is within reach.

The New York Times

In fact, they were – but in the interim, nothing, absolutely nothing, has changed.

Independent

But in the interim, the earlier escapees had begun migrating elsewhere.

The Washington Post

"But in the interim they have really been focused on improving their cost structure and profitability".

The New York Times

But in the interim, there were missed concert dates, a stop at an airport due to drugs, and public meltdowns.

Independent

"But in the interim, financial institutions have significantly enhanced their security controls and helped educate their customers".

The New York Times

But in the interim, Cink was defeated in a four-hole playoff by Woods at the Bridgestone Invitational in 2006.

The New York Times - Sports

But in the interim, Chrysler is hewing to its previously successful formula of stylish, affordable cars and rugged sport utility vehicles — albeit with better mileage than previous products.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "but in the interim" to clearly signal a temporary action or state, especially when a more permanent solution is expected later. This helps manage expectations and clarifies the current situation.

Common error

Avoid using "but in the interim" in very informal contexts; simpler alternatives like "but meanwhile" or "but for now" might be more appropriate to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but in the interim" functions as a transitional conjunction phrase. According to Ludwig AI, it connects two events or states, highlighting what occurs during a temporary period between them. It sets up a contrast while indicating what is happening in the intervening time.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

90%

Formal & Business

5%

Science

3%

Less common in

Academia

1%

Wiki

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "but in the interim" is a commonly used conjunction phrase that signals a temporary situation or action pending a more permanent resolution. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically sound and widely accepted. It is most frequently found in news and media contexts. When using this phrase, consider its formality and ensure it fits the tone of your writing. Simpler alternatives like "but meanwhile" or "but in the meantime" may be more suitable for informal communication. This phrase serves to clarify temporary conditions, manage expectations, and provide context to the reader.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

but meanwhile

Replaces "in the interim" with "meanwhile", offering a simpler and more direct transition.

but in the meantime

Substitutes "interim" with "meantime", providing a slightly less formal alternative.

however, temporarily

Focuses on the temporary aspect, suitable when emphasizing the short-term nature of the situation.

but for the moment

Highlights the present or immediate period, differing from the broader sense of "interim".

yet until then

Emphasizes the contrast and the period leading up to a future event.

but provisionally

Highlights the provisional nature of an action or arrangement during the intervening period.

though for now

A more casual way of saying "but in the interim", suitable for informal contexts.

but as a temporary measure

Specifically points out that something is a short-term solution.

but during this period

Directly refers to the time between two specified events or points.

but as a stopgap

Implies a temporary solution to bridge a gap until a more permanent fix is available.

FAQs

How can I use "but in the interim" in a sentence?

The phrase "but in the interim" is used to introduce what happens or what should be done during a temporary period. For example, "The new software won't be ready until next year, but in the interim, we'll continue using the old system."

What are some alternatives to "but in the interim"?

Alternatives include "but meanwhile", "but in the meantime", or "however, temporarily", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it okay to start a sentence with "but in the interim"?

While grammatically correct, starting a sentence with "but in the interim" can sometimes sound awkward. It's often better to connect it to a previous clause using "but" to ensure smoother flow and better context.

What's the difference between "but in the interim" and "meanwhile"?

"But in the interim" explicitly acknowledges a contrast or change between two different phases, while "meanwhile" simply indicates something happening at the same time as something else. Using "but in the meantime" could be closer in meaning to "but in the interim" than "meanwhile".