1
Core function
During the near future or over a limited period.
Example
The closure will reduce traffic in the short term.
in the short term
/ɪn ðə ʃɔːt tɜːm/ · in thuh SHORT turmshort-term phrase
During the near future or over a limited period.
Use in the short term to express this relationship precisely: during the near future or over a limited period.
What in the short term Really Means
The word becomes easier to use when its closely related senses are separated and compared.
2
Scope in a sentence
Use this expression in its normal grammatical frame so the relationship between the surrounding ideas remains explicit.
Example
In the short term, seedlings depend on stored water.
3
Analytical effect
It tells the reader how to interpret the timing, scope, evidence, contrast, condition, or consequence in the statement.
Example
The intervention improved attendance in the short term, but the effect faded after a year.
Use in the short term Naturally
Notice how the surrounding noun or clause reveals the exact shade of meaning.
The closure will reduce traffic in the short term.
In the short term, seedlings depend on stored water.
The intervention improved attendance in the short term, but the effect faded after a year.
Precision Matters
In the short term overlaps with several common words, but each carries a different emphasis.
in the short term
vs.Means during the near future or over a limited period.
in the long run
Means over an extended period, especially after immediate effects have passed.
in the short term
vs.Means during the near future or over a limited period.
from then on
Means starting at a stated time and continuing after it.
in the short term
vs.Means during the near future or over a limited period.
meanwhile
Means indicate that something happens at the same time as another event or during the interval before it is completed.
in the short term
vs.Means during the near future or over a limited period.
more often than not
Means usually or in a majority of cases, while allowing exceptions.
Test in the short term in Context
The sentence limits the predicted effect to a near period.
1
The subsidy may raise participation ___, although lasting change will require structural reform.