Translation guide
The English word "provisional" describes something temporary, arranged for the present but likely to change later. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through various adjectives, nouns, and set phrases depending on the context—such as a provisional agreement, government, or plan.
Describing something that is arranged for now but expected to be replaced or confirmed later.
The most direct and common translation for 'provisional' in formal and neutral contexts. Used for agreements, measures, plans, etc.
暫定的な合意に達した。
We reached a provisional agreement.
This is a provisional measure.
Means 'tentative' or 'provisional', often used for things like names, titles, or arrangements that are not yet finalized. Slightly less formal than 暫定的な.
仮の日程をお知らせします。
I'll let you know the provisional schedule.
これは仮のタイトルです。
This is a provisional title.
Means 'temporary' and can be used for provisional arrangements, but emphasizes the short-term nature rather than the expectation of change.
一時的な解決策に過ぎない。
It's only a provisional solution.
Referring to a government that is in place temporarily, often during a transition.
The standard term for 'provisional government'.
暫定政府が発足した。
A provisional government was established.
Also means 'provisional government', but 臨時 emphasizes the extraordinary or emergency nature of the situation.
臨時政府が樹立された。
A provisional government was set up.
Used in legal, administrative, or official documents to indicate something is not yet final.
A legal term for 'provisional disposition' or 'injunction', a temporary court order.
裁判所は仮処分を決定した。
The court issued a provisional injunction.
Something used temporarily because the proper thing is not available.
Means 'makeshift' or 'stopgap', used for a provisional solution or item that is not ideal but serves for now.
間に合わせの道具で修理した。
I repaired it with provisional tools.
Means 'for the time being' or 'provisional', often used for arrangements or measures.
当座のしのぎとして借金をした。
I borrowed money as a provisional measure.
暫定的 (zanteiteki) is the most formal and implies a planned temporary state with an expectation of change. 仮 (kari) is more casual and often used for tentative names or plans. 一時的 (ichijiteki) simply means 'temporary' and may not imply a future change.
The katakana word プロビジョナル is rarely used and sounds unnatural. Use the Japanese terms above instead.
Legal term for 'provisional seizure' or 'attachment' of assets.
仮差し押さえの申し立てが認められた。
The petition for provisional seizure was granted.