The word "temporal" has several meanings in English, and here are the synonyms for its different senses:
1. When "temporal" means "related to time"
- Chronological:
- Meaning: Arranged in the order of time. For example, "The historian presented a chronological account of the events."
- Similarity to "temporal": Both words deal with the concept of time. A temporal sequence and a chronological sequence both refer to an order that is based on the progression of time.
- Difference: "Chronological" is more specific about the arrangement in a time - based order. "Temporal" can be a more general reference to time - related aspects without necessarily emphasizing the order. For example, "temporal limitations" refers to limitations related to time in a general sense, while "chronological order" is about a specific sequential arrangement.
- Temporary:
- Meaning: Lasting for a limited period of time. For example, "They set up a temporary shelter after the disaster."
- Similarity to "temporal": They are related in that they both have a connection to the concept of time not being eternal. A temporal state or a temporary state implies that it is not a permanent condition.
- Difference: "Temporary" emphasizes the short - lived nature more. "Temporal" can refer to things that are related to time in a broader way, such as temporal patterns that may not be short - lived but are still time - based.
- Transient:
- Meaning: Passing quickly; not lasting. For example, "The transient beauty of the sunset captivated everyone."
- Similarity to "temporal": Like "temporary," "transient" also implies a non - permanent nature due to the passage of time. A temporal phenomenon and a transient phenomenon both suggest that they are not always present.
- Difference: "Transient" often has a more fleeting or momentary connotation. It implies a quicker passage than "temporary." For example, a transient thought might be gone in a split second, while a temporary job might last for weeks or months.
2. When "temporal" means "worldly or secular (as opposed to spiritual)"
- Secular:
- Meaning: Concerned with worldly things and not religious or spiritual. For example, "The country adopted a secular government."
- Similarity to "temporal": They both refer to non - spiritual aspects of life. Temporal power and secular power both imply a kind of authority that is not based on religious institutions.
- Difference: "Secular" is more commonly used to describe institutions, laws, or attitudes that are separate from religious influence. "Temporal" in this sense can be a more literary or old - fashioned way of referring to the same concept. For example, we often say "secular education" to mean non - religious education, while "temporal affairs" sounds more archaic.
- Earthly:
- Meaning: Relating to the earth or human life on earth; worldly. For example, "His earthly possessions meant a lot to him."
- Similarity to "temporal": They both have a sense of dealing with the physical world and worldly matters. Temporal pleasures and earthly pleasures both refer to pleasures that are of this world rather than spiritual joys.
- Difference: "Earthly" can have a more material or physical connotation. It often emphasizes the connection to the earth and physical things. "Temporal" in the secular sense is more about the non - spiritual domain in a more abstract way. For example, "earthly wealth" is more about tangible wealth, while "temporal power" can refer to a more intangible kind of power in a non - religious context.