transition period vs transitional period

Both "transition period" and "transitional period" are correct, interchangeable, and refer to a period of change or adjustment from one state or condition to another.

Explained by Michele A.
Editor at TextRanch

Last updated: March 28, 2025 • 4831 views

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

"transition period"

This phrase refers to a period of change or adjustment from one state or condition to another.

Examples:

During the transition period, employees will be trained on the new software.
The company is in a transition period as it shifts its focus to online sales.
The transition period between childhood and adulthood can be challenging.
The transition period after a breakup can be emotionally difficult.
The transition period following a merger requires careful planning.

Show examples from the web [+]

All comments support the Norwegian government's proposal for a three-year transition period.
No transition period is therefore notified for zone 2.
For larger tobacco holdings, part of the aid should remain coupled in a transition period.
After a transition period of two years a lower maximum level should apply.
The transition period has brought with it growing poverty and inequality.
A transition period until 30 June 2003 will apply for the technical adaptation of existing machines.
transition period (Article 9);
The dried fodder sector also needs a longer transition period, with some decoupling.
So... you think this suit is about your transition period.
The transition period arrangements mainly concern the free movement of labour between countries.
What are the main arguments for continuing the transition period?
Each revolution has its transition period.
A flaw of the transition period that will surely be corrected.
A transition period is built into the proposal to give time for re-equipment.
This Recommendation foresees a transition period until 31 December 2016 for the implementation of the recommended costing methodology under points 30-37.
I fully respect the fact that we need a transition period.
I know certain Member States feel that a far longer transition period will be necessary.
As I said, this really is a long transition period.
But we are in a... transition period currently.
These sectors need a reasonable transition period and accompanying measures to develop new market opportunities.

Alternatives:

transitional period
period of transition
phase of transition
transition phase
period of change

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

"transitional period"

This phrase also refers to a period of change or adjustment from one state or condition to another, similar to "transition period."

Examples:

The company is currently in a transitional period as it restructures its operations.
The transitional period between seasons can bring unpredictable weather.
The transitional period after a war can be a time of rebuilding.
The transitional period following a political election is crucial for the new government.
During the transitional period, students will have access to additional support services.

Show examples from the web [+]

This is an asymmetric system, a transitional period.
They presented three arguments to justify a transitional period.
It is consistent with the amendments concerning the transitional period.
A three-year transitional period is not acceptable.
During a transitional period, motorcycle makers would then be able to choose between the two test cycles.
Therefore it is necessary to introduce this obligation and to provide for a transitional period.
The term 'Qualitätswein mit Prädikat' is allowed in a transitional period expiring on 31.12.2010.
If the transitional period is not approved, these countries may experience budgetary difficulties.
It must be clear, however, that this distinction can only apply during a transitional period.
The Commission has proposed implementing the target of 175 g CO 2 over a transitional period of several years.
A transitional period has been granted for disposal facilities granted a permit before the entry into force of this Directive.
In addition, the rationale behind the transitional period should not be undermined.
The Commission shall adopt guidelines before the end of the transitional period.
This transitional period will expire on 14 August 2014.
Any automatic prolongation of the transitional period is, therefore, wholly unacceptable.
In both cases there is a need for a transitional period.
For a transitional period, the Commission shall provide the necessary support towards the establishment of the EIT structure.
Portugal has had a transitional period in which to adapt national legislation.
The rapporteur suggests the introduction of a transitional period for existing products, which contain nanomaterials.
A transitional period of one to two years should be realistic.

Alternatives:

transition period
period of transition
phase of transition
transition phase
period of change

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transition period vs transitional period

"transition period"

"transitional period"

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