Stopgap

A stopgap is a temporary measure or expedient used to deal with a problem or need until a more permanent solution can be found. It's often a makeshift or short-term arrangement that allows a situation to continue without immediate disruption, even if it's not ideal. Stopgaps are frequently employed when there's a lack of resources, time, or a fully developed plan for addressing a specific issue. They prioritize immediate needs over comprehensive solutions, acting as a bridging mechanism until a more sustainable approach is implemented. The effectiveness of a stopgap is judged by its ability to provide relief or maintain functionality in the interim.

Stopgap meaning with examples

• The company implemented a stopgap solution by hiring temporary staff to handle the increased workload during the holiday season. This helped avoid backlogs and maintained customer service levels while the team worked on permanent hiring plans. This short-term measure provided essential support during a critical period.
• After the power outage, the hospital used a stopgap generator to keep essential equipment running. The temporary power supply allowed the hospital to continue providing care while awaiting the restoration of main power, safeguarding patients' lives.
• To address the shortage of affordable housing, the city offered stopgap rent subsidies to low-income residents. This allowed them to remain in their homes while more extensive housing projects were planned and built. This immediate assistance prevented homelessness.
• The interim manager's appointment was a stopgap measure after the CEO resigned unexpectedly. The board used this temporary solution to maintain stability within the company while they conducted a search for a permanent replacement. It ensured operational continuity.
• When the original software crashed, the developers used a stopgap patch to address the major bugs. This allowed the system to remain online, even though the full, perfect fix would be a longer project. This minimized downtime.