C1adjective 5K

Interim

UK /["/ˈɪntərɪm/"]/ US /["/ˈɪntərɪm/"]/ Pronunciation

Definition

intended to last for only a short time until somebody/something more permanent is found

Listen to definition

In simple words: temporary or not permanent

Examples

• an interim government/measure/report
• The vice-president took power in **the interim period** before the election.
• He only holds the post on an interim basis.
• The company uses the agency when a vacancy needs to be filled on an interim basis.
• The value of the property almost doubled during the interim period.
• **interim figures/profits/results**
• The injured passenger received an interim award of £50 000 damages.

Usage notes

Use 'interim' when referring to something that is a temporary solution or position, like an interim manager. It's neutral and often used in business contexts.

Grammar pattern

standalone adjective

Memory hint

Think of 'in-between' — interim is in between permanent roles.

Collocations

• interim report
• interim position
• interim measures

Synonyms

• temporary
• provisional
• transitional
• makeshift

Antonyms

• permanent
• final

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'interim' vs 'internal'
• Using 'interim' in informal contexts where 'temporary' might be more appropriate
• Mispronouncing the word, stressing the wrong syllable