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

Related Words

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

Dissimilar Words

• 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

Lawmakers quickly responded with stopgap funding and later secured the $75 million to pay for up to 21,000 participants for the coming fiscal year. — Lawrence Mower, Miami Herald, 29 June 2026

Period Law’s research, advocacy, and litigation have helped identify where the city continues to fall short, including weak oversight and continued reliance on stopgap measures. — Gale Brewer, New York Daily News, 28 May 2026

Adjective

What appeared to be a stopgap feud with Fatu, however, has produced compelling TV on Raw, where The Bloodline family drama has been reignited. — Blake Oestriecher, Forbes.com, 30 May 2026

And the rest of the blue line is loaded with stopgap veterans such as Dmitry Orlov, John Klingberg, Nick Leddy and Mario Ferraro. — Mark Lazerus, New York Times, 8 May 2026