Synonyms of stopgap

stopgap 1 of 2

noun

ˈstäp-ˌgap 

as in substitute

a temporary replacement

the coach we have now was only hired as a stopgap until someone with more experience is found

Synonyms & Similar Words

• substitute
• makeshift
• backup
• expedient
• refuge
• recourse
• stand-in
• alternate
• quick fix
• resort
• standby
• understudy

stopgap

2 of 2

adjective

as in makeshift

Synonyms & Similar Words

• makeshift
• backup
• proxy
• substitute
• make-do
• alternate
• interim
• temporary
• acting
• provisional
• jackleg
• provisory
• ad interim
• provisionary

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• permanent
• long-term

Synonym Chooser

How is the word stopgap different from other nouns like it?

Some common synonyms of stopgap are expedient, makeshift, resort, resource, and shift. While all these words mean "something one turns to in the absence of the usual means or source of supply," stopgap applies to something used temporarily as an emergency measure.

a new law intended only as a stopgap

When can expedient be used instead of stopgap?

The synonyms expedient and stopgap are sometimes interchangeable, but expedient may apply to any device or contrivance used when the usual one is not at hand or not possible.

a flimsy expedient

In what contexts can makeshift take the place of stopgap?

While the synonyms makeshift and stopgap are close in meaning, makeshift implies an inferior expedient adopted because of urgent need or allowed through indifference.

old equipment employed as a makeshift

How are the words resource and resort related as synonyms of stopgap?

Both resource and resort apply to anything one falls back upon.

exhausted all of their resources

a last resort

When might shift be a better fit than stopgap?

The words shift and stopgap can be used in similar contexts, but shift implies a tentative or temporary imperfect expedient.

desperate shifts to stave off foreclosure

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of stopgap

Noun

Critics say, however, that the stopgap bill does not affect long-term funding challenges for these programs. —Mark Davis, Newsweek, 14 Mar. 2025

These geoengineering techniques are seen as potential stopgap measures, providing additional time for societies to ramp up efforts to cut carbon emissions. —Thomas G. Moukawsher, MSNBC Newsweek, 25 Apr. 2025

In March, as Trump was preparing to roll out his tariffs, House Republican leadership slipped language into a stopgap funding bill to prevent any member of Congress from challenging the national emergency Trump has declared to implement them. —Eric Cortellessa, Time, 25 Apr. 2025

The worst-case scenario is that some of the best players leave via free agency after the season, with their only replacements being low-cost stopgaps in an effort to escape salary cap hell. —Grant Brisbee, The Athletic, 25 Mar. 2025