A temporary construction is any built object which is built with its destruction already scheduled or planned. A schedule for demolition or other destruction may be set in advance, or the timing may be left open. Most temporary constructions are planned with a short lifecycle, under 10 years or often much less.

The intention to end the object's physical existence is present from construction. A fixed demolition date is optional; an open-ended schedule can still accompany an intended temporary lifespan.

A portable construction is designed for relocation. Portability and intended destruction describe different characteristics, so an object's ability to move does not by itself make its existence temporary.