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Synonyms

stopgap

American  
[stop-gap] / ˈstɒpˌgæp /

noun

  1. something that fills the place of something else that is lacking; temporary substitute; makeshift.

    Candles are a stopgap when the electricity fails.


adjective

  1. makeshift.

    This is only a stopgap solution.

    Synonyms:
    impromptu, substitute, temporary, improvised
stopgap British  
/ ˈstɒpˌɡæp /

noun

    1. a temporary substitute for something else

    2. ( as modifier )

      a stopgap programme

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of stopgap

First recorded in 1525–35; noun, adj. use of verb phrase stop a gap

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Even if both sides reach a stopgap agreement, experts said the prospects of a long-term arms control treaty remained murky.

From BBC

The legislation aims to keep the federal government open through September while allocating stopgap funding for the Department of Homeland Security, as negotiations continue over that department’s budget.

From MarketWatch

The package passed by the Senate aims to keep the government open through September while allocating stopgap funding for the Department of Homeland Security as negotiations continue over the department’s budget.

From MarketWatch

Graham had objected to provisions in the DHS stopgap and to House-passed language repealing an earlier measure that allowed senators to sue the Justice Department if their phone records were seized during past investigations.

From Barron's

Nate Landman punches in: When the Rams signed Landman, it was regarded as another stopgap at inside linebacker, where the Rams under McVay have not invested heavily.

From Los Angeles Times