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"Transient" and "transitory": words of fleeting nature

Reviewed and edited by

Lloyd Cooper 26/12/2024, 15:14

English.me team member

Transient and transitory. What's the difference?

What is similar?

Both "transient" and "transitory" describe something that is temporary or short-lived.

What is different?

While both words convey temporariness, "transient" can function as both an adjective and a noun, often referring to something that passes quickly or a person staying briefly. "Transitory" is solely an adjective and emphasizes the brief duration of something, highlighting its tendency to change or pass away.

Which one is more common?

Internet search results for transient) and transitory

Examples of usage

Transient

The transient rain shower left the streets glistening.
She stayed at the hotel as a transient guest.
The city's transient population makes long-term planning challenging.

Transitory

Youth is a transitory stage of life.
They experienced a transitory period of prosperity.
The excitement was transitory, soon replaced by routine.

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