temporary position

USAGE SUMMARY

"temporary position" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to refer to a job that is expected to last a short period of time, rather than being a permanent role. For example, "The company had an opening for a temporary position in their accounts department."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

Does a temporary position amount to a job?

The New York Times

"He decided to try him at a temporary position," Tang said.

The New Yorker

There is also the chance a temporary position will become a permanent one.

The New York Times

Then, last summer, she got a temporary position with a large international energy corporation.

The New York Times

With limited options, Ms. Sylvas took a temporary position in October at another company's distribution center.

The New York Times

A. A temporary position can be an audition for something more permanent.

The New York Times

A lack of prior experience is often cited as a barrier to gaining a temporary position or internship.

The Guardian

It's the ultimate summer job – a well-paid, temporary position that will look great on your CV.

The Guardian

Determined to avoid typing pools, she took a temporary position as a chemist at Fine Organics, a manufacturer in Lodi.

The New York Times

Dreading unemployment, I found another temporary position and was sent to a major financial institution, where I have worked continually for the past two and a half years.

The Guardian - Opinion

While on the farm, Chauncey was attacked by a dog, which I wrote about in my temporary position as a staff writer for the Houston Press.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing a "temporary position", clearly state its duration or end date to avoid ambiguity. This sets clear expectations for both employer and employee.

Common error

Don't assume a "temporary position" will automatically become permanent. While it's possible, focus on excelling in the short-term role and actively seek feedback for potential opportunities, rather than expecting a guaranteed transition.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "temporary position" functions as a noun phrase, where the adjective "temporary" modifies the noun "position". It describes a job or role that is not permanent, offering a clear indication of its limited duration, as indicated by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

25%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

7%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "temporary position" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe a job with a limited duration. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's widely used across various contexts, including News & Media and Science, to clearly indicate that a role is not permanent. When using this phrase, ensure you communicate the expected duration to avoid misunderstandings. While these positions can offer valuable experience and networking opportunities, it's crucial not to assume they will automatically lead to permanent employment. Alternatives like "short-term role" or "contractual assignment" may be suitable depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

short-term role

Emphasizes the limited duration of the role, focusing on the temporal aspect.

contractual assignment

Highlights the formal agreement and project-based nature of the employment.

fixed-term appointment

Stresses the predetermined end date and formal nature of the job.

seasonal employment

Indicates a job tied to a specific time of year or season.

interim job

Implies a job taken as a stopgap measure until something more permanent is found.

project-based work

Focuses on the completion of a specific project as the basis for employment.

contingent work

Emphasizes the uncertain or conditional nature of the employment.

limited-term engagement

Highlights the finite and defined period of involvement.

ad-hoc assignment

Suggests a task or duty assigned for a particular purpose or need.

transitional role

Indicates a position that serves as a stepping stone or bridge to another opportunity.

FAQs

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

You can use "temporary position" to describe a job that is not permanent. For example, "She accepted a "temporary position" at the company while looking for a full-time role."

What are some alternatives to "temporary position"?

Alternatives include "short-term role", "contractual assignment", or "fixed-term appointment", depending on the context.

Is a "temporary position" the same as an internship?

While both are often time-limited, a "temporary position" is typically a paid job with specific responsibilities, whereas an internship may be paid or unpaid and focuses more on learning and gaining experience.

What are the benefits of taking a "temporary position"?

A "temporary position" can provide valuable experience, networking opportunities, and income while searching for a permanent job. It can also be a way to 'test the waters' at a company before committing to a full-time role.