Instant: meaning, definitions and examples
⏳
instant
[ˈɪnstənt ]
Definitions
food
Done or occurring immediately.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| instant |
Note: This word was repeated. See the entry above. |
| immediate |
Best applied when something happens right away without any lapse of time, often used in formal or urgent contexts.
|
| prompt |
Used to describe actions done without delay, but often implies slightly more deliberation than 'instant' or 'immediate'.
|
| quick |
Used generally for actions done in a short amount of time. It is less formal and implies speed without necessarily being instant.
|
Examples of usage
- He made an instant decision.
- She had an instant dislike for him.
- The coffee is ready in an instant.
time
A very short time; a moment.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| instant |
This word is ideal for describing something that happens immediately without any delay. It is often used in both formal and informal settings to convey a sense of urgency or quickness.
|
| moment |
Appropriate for describing a brief period of time or a short delay, this word is often used in both day-to-day and more reflective contexts.
|
| second |
This word is used for very short and specific durations of time, suitable in both casual and precise contexts. It can often imply that something will happen nearly immediately.
|
| jiffy |
This informal term is often used to refer to a very short, undefined period of time. It has a casual and somewhat playful tone.
|
Examples of usage
- I'll be back in an instant.
- In an instant, everything changed.
- She disappeared in an instant.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word comes from the Latin word 'instans,' meaning 'to stand before' or 'to be urgent.'
- It was first used in English in the late 14th century, primarily referring to something immediate or occurring at the moment.
Technology
- In computing, 'instant' often refers to services or messaging that happen in real-time, like instant messaging apps.
- The rise of instant noodles and instant meals in the 20th century transformed convenience food culture worldwide.
Psychology
- Our brains have a tendency to prefer 'instant gratification,' which can impact decision-making and emotional responses.
- Delays in receiving rewards can affect mood and motivation, highlighting our natural desire for instant results.
Marketing
- Marketing strategies often capitalize on the appeal of instant solutions, promising quick fixes to problems or immediate access to benefits.
- Brands frequently use the term 'instant' in advertisements to emphasize speed and convenience.
Pop Culture
- Movies and shows often depict instant decisions that lead to comedic or dramatic consequences, reinforcing the thrill of immediacy.
- Popular sayings like 'instant classic' describe a work that becomes beloved immediately upon release.
Translations
Translations of the word "instant" in other languages:
🇵🇹 instantâneo
🇮🇳 तात्कालिक
🇩🇪 sofort
🇮🇩 seketika
🇺🇦 миттєвий
🇵🇱 natychmiastowy
🇯🇵 即時 (そくじ)
🇫🇷 instantané
🇪🇸 instantáneo
🇹🇷 anlık
🇰🇷 즉시
🇸🇦 فوري
🇨🇿 okamžitý
🇸🇰 okamžitý
🇨🇳 即时 (jíshí)
🇸🇮 trenuten
🇮🇸 skyndilegur
🇰🇿 жедел
🇬🇪 მყისიერი
🇦🇿 ani
🇲🇽 instantáneo