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temporal

TEM-puh-ruhl /ˈtem.pər.əl/

adjectiveC1GRESATUPSC

AcademicFormal

Relating to time as opposed to space; or relating to worldly, earthly affairs as opposed to spiritual matters.

In phenomenology, refers to the conscious experience of time flowing—past memory, present attention, and future anticipation.

The story behind the word. Derived from Latin 'tempus' (time or opportunity). In anatomy, the side of the head is named the 'temporal region' because hair at the temples turns gray first, revealing the passage of time.

Word relationships

time-based: Informal adjective for events arranged by time.
secular: 'Secular' emphasizes non-religious governance, whereas 'temporal' contrasts time/earthly life with eternity.

atemporal: Existing outside of time; timeless.
spiritual: Relating to sacred or eternal matters rather than earthly, physical life.

Commonly confused with

temporary: Temporary means lasting for a short duration; temporal means related to time itself or worldly existence.

Word family

temporality (noun): The state or condition of existing within time.
temporally (adverb): With respect to time.

Collocations

temporal dimension
temporal lobe
temporal power
temporal sequence

Example sentences

"Phenomenologists examine how consciousness unifies past, present, and future into a seamless temporal flow." Phenomenology
"During the Middle Ages, kings held temporal power while the Pope exercised spiritual authority." History & Law

Memory hook

TEMPORAL = TEMPO in music (time and rhythm of experience). Tied to time and earthly life.

When not to use

Do not confuse with 'temporary' (lasting a short time). Temporal means related to time itself or earthly life.

Fun facts

The anatomical term 'temporal lobe' comes from the Latin 'tempora' (temples), marked as the clock on our face where aging shows first.

Explore more words

eternal, secular, worldly, impermanent, spatial, corporeal