Comparison of "临时" and "暂时"

In Chinese, both "临时" (línshí) and "暂时" (zànshí) are adjectives used to indicate a temporary or provisional state, but they are used in slightly different contexts.

临时 (línshí)

"临时" typically means "temporary" or "interim." It is used to describe something that is done or arranged for the present, often implying that it is not permanent.

• For example: We set up a temporary shelter. - 我们搭起了一个临时的避难所。(Wǒmen dāqǐle yīgè línshí de bìnàn suǒ.)
• For example: She took on a temporary job to make ends meet. - 她接了一份临时工以维持生计。(Tā jiēle yī fèn línshí gōng yǐ wéichí shēngjì.)

暂时 (zànshí)

"暂时" also means "temporary" or "temporary." It is used to describe something that is not permanent and may change in the future, but it implies a shorter duration or a more immediate and provisional nature than "临时."

• For example: Let's put it aside for the time being. - 暂时把它搁置一边。(Zànshí bǎ tā gēzhì yībiān.)
• For example: The problem is only temporary. - 这个问题只是暂时的。(Zhège wèntí zhǐshì zànshí de.)

Main Differences

• Duration: "临时" implies a temporary arrangement or situation that may last for a longer period, while "暂时" suggests a shorter and more immediate temporary state.
• Usage: "临时" is often used to describe temporary arrangements, jobs, or solutions, while "暂时" is used more broadly to indicate a temporary state or condition.