These words refer to time, but in different ways. Temporal means "limited by time," "concerned with affairs of this world," "worldly, not spiritual": "As a state official, he is occupied with temporal affairs that come up every day." "Many priests have little concern for temporal matters." Temporary means "impermanent," "transient," "for the time being": "These are temporary arrangements only." "She took a temporary job until she could find a permanent one."
Dictionary of problem words and expressions. Harry Shaw. 1975.