stopgap — a temporary solution or substitute
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: a temporary solution or substitute
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈstɑːpɡæp/
Example Sentences
- My roommate used duct tape as a stopgap to fix the broken window - three months ago.
- The company's stopgap policy of free pizza every Friday worked better than expected to boost morale.
- The government announced a stopgap budget to avoid a shutdown.
stopgap
NOUN[/ˈstɑːpɡæp/]
a temporary solution or substitute

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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From 16th century English, combining 'stop' (to block) and 'gap' (an opening or space). Originally a military term for temporarily blocking breaches in fortress walls.
Breakdown
stop (to block/halt) + gap (opening/space) = something that temporarily fills a hole or need
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“My roommate used duct tape as a stopgap to fix the broken window - three months ago.”
“The company's stopgap policy of free pizza every Friday worked better than expected to boost morale.”
“The government announced a stopgap budget to avoid a shutdown.”
“Coffee became my stopgap for actual sleep during finals week.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
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