prozatím

Prozatím is a Czech adverb meaning for the time being or temporarily. It denotes that a state, decision, or arrangement is provisional and may be changed later, often pending new information or a future assessment. The term is common in both spoken and written Czech and is used to frame non-final or intermediate situations.

Etymology and form: Prozatím is a compound of the prefix pro- (for) and the adverb zatím (so far, up to now). It functions as an adverb. The related adjective form is prozatímní, meaning temporary or provisional, as in prozatímní řešení.

Usage and nuance: Prozatím signals that a situation should be understood as temporary rather than permanent. It is frequently used when a decision has not yet been finalized or when plans may change. In contrast to zatím, which can mean for now in a broad sense, prozatím emphasizes provisional status and the expectation of future revision. The term is common in formal and informal contexts, including journalism, politics, and everyday conversation.

Examples:

- Prozatím je to řešení, které vyhovuje, ale bude se znovu posuzovat.

- Prozatím s tím počkáme.

- Prozatímní opatření zůstává na místě, dokud nenalezneme trvalé řešení.

See also: dočasný, dočasně, zatím, prozatímní.