How to Pronounce Temporary

To pronounce "temporary", say TEMP-or-ary — 3 syllables, IPA /ˈtɛmpəɹi/. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents, or practice it syllable by syllable.

temporary

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Accent

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Speed

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3

Syllables

9

Letters

/ˈtɛmpəɹi/

IPA

💡 Tip for remembering “temporary”

"temporary" has 3 syllables: temp-or-ary. It rhymes with extraordinary and contemporary, if that helps it stick.

What does temporary mean?

noun

  1. One serving for a limited time; short-term employee.

adjective

  1. Not permanent; existing only for a period or periods of time.
  2. Existing only for a short time or short times; transient, ephemeral.

Synonyms

temp

Hear “temporary” in real sentences

Real example sentences from Tatoeba (CC-BY) — tap to hear each one, or see it used on YouGlish.

Words that rhyme with temporary

Practicing rhymes trains the same ending sounds.

extraordinarycontemporarycontrarysanctuarysolitaryarbitrarywaryordinarytarryemissarycarryancillary

Related words

transitorytransientephemeralshort-livedpassingimpermanentfugaciousinterim

Frequently asked questions

How many syllables are in "temporary"?▾

"Temporary" has 3 syllables: temp · or · ary.

What is the IPA transcription of "temporary"?▾

The IPA transcription of "temporary" is /ˈtɛmpəɹi/.

What does "temporary" mean?▾

Temporary: One serving for a limited time; short-term employee.

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