Transient
mediumNeutral toneTRAN-shunt
adjective
Definition
Lasting only for a short time; temporary
Memory hook
TRANS-ient: In TRANSIT -- just passing through, not staying long.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“The pain was transient and disappeared within hours.”
“She worked various transient jobs while searching for permanent employment.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“The pain was ______ and disappeared within hours.”
Show answer
transient
Categories
GRE Tip
Transient is a medium-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "fleeting" or "ephemeral" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "permanent".
Related GRE Words
fugitive
Quick to disappear; fleeting; a person who has escaped
momentary
Lasting for a very short time; brief
ephemeral
Lasting for a very short time; transitory
transitory
Not permanent; lasting only for a short time
evanescent
Soon passing out of sight, memory, or existence; quickly fading or disappearing
fleeting
Lasting for a very short time; passing quickly
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