Select the synonym (word closest in meaning) of “transient”, which describes something that lasts only for a short time.

Introduction:
This synonym question focuses on the adjective transient. The word transient is commonly used to describe situations, events, or feelings that are temporary and do not last long. Understanding such nuanced vocabulary is important for accurately interpreting passages in literature, science, and social sciences.

Given Data / Assumptions:

- Target word: transient. - Options: lacerate, ephemeral, perpetual, enduring. - The correct option must express the idea of short duration.

Concept / Approach:
Transient means lasting only for a short time or not permanent. A close synonym is ephemeral, which also means short-lived, especially in the sense of passing quickly or existing only briefly. The other options actually move toward the opposite meaning: perpetual and enduring describe things that continue for a long time, and lacerate refers to tearing or cutting the skin or emotions. Therefore, ephemeral is the only option that matches the required sense.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall the basic meaning of transient: temporary, not lasting long. Step 2: Examine ephemeral, which is used in phrases like ephemeral beauty or ephemeral success, meaning short-lived. Step 3: Consider perpetual, which means continuing forever or for a long time without interruption. Step 4: Consider enduring, which means lasting over a long period or able to continue despite difficulties. Step 5: Recognise that lacerate means to tear or deeply cut, which is unrelated to duration. Step 6: Conclude that ephemeral is the correct synonym of transient.

Verification / Alternative check:
Use both words in similar sentences: The city experienced a transient population of tourists during the festival and The city experienced an ephemeral population of tourists during the festival. Both convey the idea of a short-term presence. If we use perpetual or enduring, the meaning becomes opposite, suggesting a continuous or long-term situation, which conflicts with transient. Lacerate does not fit into this context at all, confirming that it is unrelated.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Lacerate is about physical or emotional injury and has no connection to time or duration. Perpetual suggests never-ending or extremely long-lasting, the direct opposite of short-lived. Enduring similarly indicates long duration or resilience. Since the question is specifically about a word meaning short-lived, these three options cannot serve as correct synonyms.

Common Pitfalls:
Students sometimes confuse words that describe emotional pain, like lacerate, with those that describe temporary phases, due to emotional associations. Others may choose perpetual or enduring because they know these are strong adjectives, but they ignore the requirement for similarity in meaning. For synonym questions, always focus on the core dictionary definition rather than emotional impressions or the strength of the word.

Final Answer:
ephemeral is the synonym that best matches the meaning of transient.