Temporaneo vs. provvisorio
The Italian words 'temporaneo' and 'provvisorio' both mean 'temporary' in English, but they have subtle differences in usage and connotation.
Temporaneo
'Temporaneo' refers to something that is temporary by nature or design, often with a defined or expected duration.
Il museo ospita una mostra temporanea di arte moderna.
(The museum is hosting a temporary exhibition of modern art.)
Durante i lavori stradali, è stato istituito un divieto temporaneo di parcheggio.
(A temporary parking ban has been put in place during the road works.)
Provvisorio
'Provvisorio' implies something that is provisional, makeshift, or interim, often used for situations that are temporary but may be subject to change or improvement.
Dopo il terremoto, molte famiglie vivono in alloggi provvisori.
(After the earthquake, many families are living in temporary housing.)
Il governo ha nominato un direttore provvisorio in attesa di una selezione definitiva.
(The government has appointed an interim director pending a final selection.)
Summary
While both 'temporaneo' and 'provvisorio' mean temporary, 'temporaneo' is used for situations with a more defined timeframe, while 'provvisorio' often implies a temporary solution that may be replaced or improved upon in the future.