Despite occasional and temporary gains by one side or the other, there is no end in sight to the war, which has claimed at least 70,000 lives.
Kulturkampf was hardly a success of Bismarck's government, despite temporary gains within the government itself.
Chinese losses were heavy nonetheless, and they sustained more than 28,000 casualties for only temporary gain.
The potential for another disaster and overall expense of expeditions this size was considered to outweigh the temporary gain of the raids.
These were not temporary tactical gains, but long-term reconquests.
I believe that Wilshaw's approach may have some temporary gains, but will cause longer-term damage.
His action promises temporary gains, but it undermines Argentina's integrity.
If it did, it would find that temporary gain in speed of advance would be more than offset by eventual loss.
I see that enchantment for what it is, a trap of temporary gain through reckless action that can only lead to complete and utter ruin.
There were also temporary Christian gains further afield.