transitional

UK: trænˈzɪʃənəl | US: trænˈzɪʃənəl

Definition
  1. adj. relating to or characteristic of a transition (an intermediate state or process)

  2. adj. serving as a bridge between two stages or conditions

Structure
transit <pass across>ion <noun suffix>al <adjective suffix>
Etymology

The word "transitional" derives from the Latin root trans- (meaning "across") combined with ire (meaning "to go"), forming transitus ("a crossing"). The suffix -ion nominalizes the action, while -al converts it into an adjective. Historically, it reflects the concept of movement between states, evolving from physical crossing (e.g., rivers) to abstract changes (e.g., phases of life).

Examples
  1. The transitional government aimed to stabilize the country before elections.

  2. Her artwork reflects a transitional period between realism and abstraction.

  3. The species exhibits transitional features linking ancient and modern forms.

  4. The report highlights transitional challenges in adopting renewable energy.

  5. This chapter serves as a transitional bridge between the two main themes.