Ways to say it
| Spanish | IPA |
|---|---|
| temporario | /tempoˈɾaɾjo/ |
| temporero | /tempoˈɾeɾo/ |
The term is used to describe something that is for a limited time, ephemeral or not constant. Depending on the context, you might use synonyms like efímero for something ephemeral, transitorio for something transitory or momentáneo for something momentary.
Which one should you use?
While temporario describes things that are temporary, the word temporal is a common synonym in many Spanish-speaking regions. However, be aware that temporal can also mean something pertaining to time or relate to weather depending on the context. Additionally, in a noun context, both temporero and temporal can refer to a short-term employee.
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
As an adjective, temporario must agree in gender and number with the noun it modifies. Use temporaria for feminine nouns and temporarios for masculine plural nouns.
How do you pronounce it?
/tempoˈɾaɾjo/
When do people say it?
The word temporero is frequently used to refer to a seasonal worker, such as someone employed for a specific season in agriculture.
Did you know?
- In a religious context, temporal is used to distinguish worldly, earthly matters from the 'spiritual' realm.
- The word temporal is a 'false friend' for many learners. While it can mean 'temporary', it is much more commonly used to describe a violent storm or a weather phenomenon.
- When describing a 'temporary' person in a professional sense, interino is often used instead of temporario to specify that someone is filling a vacancy until a permanent hire is made.
Examples in context
- Necesitamos contratar personal de forma temporal.We need to hire staff temporarily.
- El comité designó un presidente provisional hasta las elecciones.The committee appointed a provisional president until the elections.
- No te preocupes, esto es solo pasajero.Don't worry, this is only temporary.
- Temporalmente viviré en otro país hasta que encuentre trabajo aquí.I will temporarily live in another country until I find a job here.
- Es un trabajo temporario.It is a temporary job.
- Tenemos un acuerdo temporario.We have a temporary agreement.
Example conversation
Daniel and Elena are discussing a project at work.
- DanielElena, ¿este archivo es permanente?Elena, is this file permanent?
- ElenaNo, es un registro temporario.No, it is a temporary record.
- DanielEntiendo, entonces puedo borrarlo luego.I understand, so I can delete it later.
- ElenaSí, Daniel, bórralo mañana.Yes, Daniel, delete it tomorrow.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “temporary” translations and entries temporario, temporero, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
