In contrast to traits, "states" are

a. basic tendencies that define the core potential of a person.

b. enduring response patterns that an individual exhibits in many different contexts.

c. transient aspects of the personality.

d. aspects of the personality that are consistent over a person's lifetime.

I believe the answer is: d. transient aspects of the personality.

Transient aspect of the Personality refers to the aspect that easily pass by and replaced with new one within short period of time. 'States' could easily change from one thing to another depending on the event that occurs in human life, whether it's relationship with others, rewards on our job, etc.