in a temporary capacity

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in a temporary capacity" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who is filling a role or position for a limited time rather than permanently. Example: "She is working in a temporary capacity as the project manager while the regular manager is on leave."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

They might be re-employed in a temporary capacity but at a reduced salary.

The Guardian - Opinion

He was appointed in a temporary capacity after the collapse of the previous administration in a finance scandal.

The New York Times

Greuel would become the first female mayor, and Garcetti could become the first Jew elected to the post (but not the first to hold it in a temporary capacity).

The Guardian

Channel 4 and Ofcom have held discussions about Price, who has been the broadcaster's deputy chairman for the last two years, and his appointment in a temporary capacity is in line with standard industry practice.

The Guardian

Eriksson could not disguise the fact that he would jump at the chance to manage England again in a temporary capacity at this summer's European Championship in Poland and Ukraine – another opportunity he knows will not come his way.

Independent

In a move that is likely to prove controversial, possibly inspirational and certainly educational, British Cycling confirmed on Thursday it is employing the former professional, David Millar, in a temporary capacity as a mentor to the under-23 men's academy following their relocation to Italy.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

The latter's chairman, Tony Kleanthous, dispensed with his manager, Ian Hendon, last week and reappointed Paul Fairclough, who took them back into the League five years ago, in temporary capacity.

The Guardian - Sport

In 19 % of the cases, teleradiology outsourcing is used in order to solve temporary capacity problems (i.e. staff shortages, holidays and illness).

Insights into Imaging

Not all polymers can be fixed in a temporary shape.

Journal of Petroleum Exploration and Production Technology

Not dressed in a temporary costume".

Los Angeles Times

That will be played at Allianz Park if Saracens can negotiate a temporary hike in capacity from 10,000 to 15,000 as the competition regulations demand.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a role or position that is expected to become permanent, consider using qualifiers such as "initially in a temporary capacity" to set expectations clearly.

Common error

Avoid using "in a temporary capacity" if the intention is for the role to evolve into a permanent one. If there is a possibility of permanence, state the temporary nature explicitly with a phrase like "with the potential for a permanent position"

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in a temporary capacity" functions as a prepositional phrase modifying a verb or noun. Ludwig AI indicates its correctness and usability, and the examples demonstrate it clarifies the non-permanent nature of a role or position.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

13%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "in a temporary capacity" is a common and grammatically sound way to indicate that a role or assignment is not permanent. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. It's frequently found in news, business, and scientific contexts, showing its versatility across different registers. When using this phrase, ensure that the temporary nature of the role is well-understood, and consider alternative phrasings like "temporarily" or "on a short-term basis" depending on the specific context and desired level of formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

temporarily

A straightforward adverb indicating non-permanence.

on a short-term basis

Emphasizes the limited duration of the arrangement; less formal.

as an interim measure

Suggests filling a gap until a permanent solution is found; slightly more formal.

for a limited time

Highlights the time constraint, suitable when the period is definite.

in an acting role

Specifically for positions, especially in management or leadership.

provisionally

A more concise and formal adverb expressing the same idea.

on a trial basis

Implies an evaluation period to determine suitability for a permanent role.

as a fill-in

Informal and suggests briefly replacing someone who is absent.

for the time being

Indicates a solution that works for now but might change later.

on an ad hoc basis

Suggests the arrangement is made for a specific, immediate need and may not be repeated.

FAQs

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

You can use "in a temporary capacity" to describe a situation where someone is filling a role for a limited time. For example: "She is serving "in a temporary capacity" as the director while the permanent director is on leave".

What is a less formal way to say "in a temporary capacity"?

Less formal alternatives to "in a temporary capacity" include "temporarily", "for a limited time", or "on a short-term basis". The choice depends on the context and your audience.

Is there a difference between "in an interim capacity" and "in a temporary capacity"?

"In an interim capacity" and "in a temporary capacity" are very similar. "In an interim capacity" often implies a more formal or official situation, such as filling a leadership role, while "in a temporary capacity" is a more general term for any non-permanent role. However, they are largely interchangeable.

What are some synonyms for "in a temporary capacity" that I can use in formal writing?

In formal writing, consider using synonyms such as "provisionally", "as an interim measure", or "in an acting role" to maintain a professional tone.