on an interim basis

USAGE SUMMARY

"on an interim basis" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is often used to refer to a temporary arrangement, and it can be used similarly to "in the meantime". For example: "We will continue to operate the shop on an interim basis until a new owner is found."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

He was replaced on an interim basis by Rahal, one of nine CART board members.

The New York Times - Sports

Ira Cook had filled the position on an interim basis.

The New York Times

Alan Fitzgibbon returned to Illawarra only on an interim basis.

The Guardian - Sport

She will be succeeded on an interim basis by Irving Teitelbaum, the chairman.

The New York Times

John W. Swygert, who had also served on an interim basis, was named chief financial officer.

The New York Times

Chris Ford, an assistant coach, took over on an interim basis.

The New York Times - Sports

Babcock was fired last week and replaced on an interim basis by Wayne Embry.

The New York Times

Daybreak is currently presented on an interim basis by Kate Garraway and Dan Lobb.

The Guardian

He will serve on the Appellate Court on an interim basis, pending confirmation by the Legislature.

The New York Times

The team replaced him with the assistant coach Tom Barrise on an interim basis.

The New York Times

The outsourcing giant Capita took over the contract on an interim basis in April last year.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing formal content, provide context about why the arrangement is temporary and what the expected duration is.

Common error

Don't assume that "on an interim basis" automatically implies a short duration. Explicitly state the expected timeframe or conditions for the arrangement to avoid ambiguity. Provide clarifications if you're talking about more than just time, i.e. responsibilities.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on an interim basis" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to indicate that an action or state is temporary. Ludwig AI confirms this through numerous examples where it describes temporary roles, solutions, or arrangements.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Formal & Business

1%

Science

1%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "on an interim basis" is a very common and grammatically correct adverbial phrase used to denote temporary arrangements, roles, or solutions. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, its primary function is to clarify that a situation is not permanent, and it's frequently found in news and business contexts. When using this phrase, it's best practice to provide additional information about the duration or specific conditions of the arrangement. Related phrases include "temporarily", "for the time being", and "on a provisional basis", offering alternative ways to express the concept of something being not definitive.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

On a provisional basis

Implies the arrangement is subject to confirmation or revision.

Temporarily

Single-word adverb conveying the same meaning of transience but with no implicit notion of filling a gap.

Serving in a temporary capacity

Emphasizes the role of an individual rather than a solution or action.

As an interim solution

Highlights the fact that it's a way of solving a problem.

In the meantime

Focuses on the period between events, not necessarily a role or position.

For the time being

Indicates a situation will continue only until something else happens, placing more emphasis on the duration.

As a short-term measure

Highlights the brevity and solution-oriented nature of the action or role.

Acting as a stand-in

Focuses on substitution, often used when someone is absent.

For a limited period

Focuses on the constraint of the period of time.

Until a permanent replacement is found

Clearly states the condition that will end the temporary arrangement.

FAQs

How to use "on an interim basis" in a sentence?

You can use "on an interim basis" to describe a temporary arrangement or role. For example: "She will serve as CEO "temporarily"" or "He is managing the project "in the meantime"".

What can I say instead of "on an interim basis"?

You can use alternatives such as ""temporarily"", "for the time being", or "on a provisional basis" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "on an interim basis" in formal writing?

Yes, "on an interim basis" is suitable for formal writing, especially in business or official communications. It clearly conveys the temporary nature of a situation or appointment. However, be sure to offer details of duration and expectations for responsibilities.

What's the difference between "on an interim basis" and "permanently"?

"On an interim basis" indicates a temporary situation or role, while "permanently" indicates that something is intended to last indefinitely. One implies a change is coming, the other that it won't.