transitional phase

USAGE SUMMARY

"transitional phase" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase to refer to a period of time in which a process or situation is changing from one state to another. For example, "The company is currently in a transitional phase as it adjusts to the new market conditions."

✓ Grammatically correct

Transitions between states or conditions

Periods of change or development

Temporary stages in a process

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Transitions often bridge conceptually sharper and more coherent phases, though a transitional phase can after a time become the norm against which a subsequent transitional phase is evaluated.

Journal of International Humanitarian Action

We're caught in a transitional phase".

The New Yorker

He is in a vital transitional phase.

The New York Times

Arguably, this represents a transitional phase.

The New York Times

Mr. McGriff is in a transitional phase.

The New York Times - Arts

I see it as a transitional phase, entering into a transitional phase".

The New York Times - Sports

Suppose the Brexit deal contains a five-year transitional phase.

The Guardian - Opinion

This thicket of contracts and subsidiaries says something, perhaps, about the music industry's current transitional phase.

The New York Times - Arts

In this transitional phase of perplexity or sorrow, the vaguely apelike features are softened, even attractive.

The New Yorker

After a transitional phase it formally became a republic last Dec.

The New Yorker

... As a transitional phase, a customs union agreement might be thought to have some merit.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "transitional phase" to clearly indicate a period where a shift from one state to another is actively occurring. Be specific about what is transitioning and the expected outcome.

Common error

Avoid using "transitional phase" as a vague placeholder. Clearly define what is transitioning from what to what. Without this clarity, the phrase loses its meaning and becomes filler.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "transitional phase" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject complement or object of a preposition. It identifies a specific period or stage characterized by change or transformation, as evidenced by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

18%

Encyclopedias

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "transitional phase" is a grammatically correct and frequently used noun phrase to describe a period of change or transformation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it’s appropriate for use in written English. Found across various sources like news, science, and encyclopedias, it indicates a situation is currently undergoing a shift. When using the phrase, ensure you clearly define what is transitioning to avoid vagueness. While alternatives like "interim period" or "period of transition" exist, "transitional phase" remains a strong choice for conveying this specific concept in both neutral and somewhat formal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

period of transition

Similar meaning, but emphasizes the act of transitioning.

intermediate stage

Emphasizes that it is a step between stages.

interim period

Focuses on the time aspect of being between two states.

temporary period

Emphasizes the temporary nature of the phase.

period of adjustment

Emphasizes adapting to new conditions.

bridging period

Highlights the role of connecting two different states or times.

preliminary stage

Highlights that it is a stage before something else.

developmental stage

More specific, referring to a stage of growth or development.

evolutionary period

Implies a gradual change or unfolding.

changing times

More general and emphasizes the fact of ongoing change.

FAQs

How can I use "transitional phase" in a sentence?

You can use "transitional phase" to describe a period of change or development. For example, "The company is in a "transitional phase" as it integrates new technologies."

What are some alternatives to "transitional phase"?

Alternatives include "interim period", "period of transition", or "intermediate stage", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use "transitional phase" or "transition phase"?

"Transitional phase" is more common and grammatically sound. "Transition phase" is less frequently used and can sound awkward. It's usually safer to stick with "transitional phase".

How long does a "transitional phase" typically last?

The duration of a "transitional phase" varies greatly depending on the context. It could last days, weeks, months, or even years depending on the complexity and scope of the changes involved.