Instantaneous: meaning, definitions and examples

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instantaneous

 

[ ˌɪnstənˈteɪniəs ]

Adjective / Adverb
Context #1 | Adjective

in physics

Occurring or done in an instant or instantly.

Synonyms

immediate, instant, sudden.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
instantaneous

Used when something happens or is done in an instant, with no delay. Often used in scientific, technical, and formal contexts.

  • The reaction was instantaneous.
  • The system provides instantaneous feedback to users.
immediate

Refers to something that happens or is required without any delay. Often used in everyday situations as well as professional settings.

  • We need an immediate response to this issue.
  • The doctor provided immediate care to the patient.
instant

Indicates something that happens quickly but not necessarily without any delay. It is often used in everyday language and can imply convenience.

  • We have instant coffee for a quick drink.
  • He felt an instant connection with her.
sudden

Used when something happens quickly and unexpectedly. Often carries a sense of surprise or shock.

  • There was a sudden change in the weather.
  • Her sudden departure left everyone puzzled.

Examples of usage

  • The speed of light is considered to be an instantaneous speed.
  • The change in temperature was almost instantaneous when the fire started.
Context #2 | Adverb

formal

In an instant; immediately.

Synonyms

immediately, instantly.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
instantaneous

Use this word when emphasizing something that happens in an extremely short amount of time, often used in scientific or technical contexts.

  • The transition was almost instantaneous
  • The application provides instantaneous feedback
immediately

This word is suitable for everyday use to describe something that happens without any delay.

  • She called me immediately after she heard the news
  • Please respond immediately
instantly

This word is similar to 'immediately' but often implies a more rapid response, often used in more casual or informal settings.

  • The pain relief worked instantly
  • He recognized her voice instantly

Examples of usage

  • The decision was made instantaneously.
  • She responded to the question instantaneously.

Translations

Translations of the word "instantaneous" in other languages:

🇵🇹 instantâneo

🇮🇳 तात्कालिक

🇩🇪 sofort

🇮🇩 seketika

🇺🇦 миттєвий

🇵🇱 natychmiastowy

🇯🇵 瞬間的な (しゅんかんてきな)

🇫🇷 instantané

🇪🇸 instantáneo

🇹🇷 anlık

🇰🇷 즉각적인

🇸🇦 فوري

🇨🇿 okamžitý

🇸🇰 okamžitý

🇨🇳 瞬间的 (shùnjiān de)

🇸🇮 trenuten

🇮🇸 skyndilegur

🇰🇿 жедел

🇬🇪 მყისიერი (mq`isi`eri)

🇦🇿 ani

🇲🇽 instantáneo

Etymology

The word 'instantaneous' originated in the late 17th century from the Latin word 'instantaneus', which means 'done in an instant'. It has been used in various fields such as physics, mathematics, and everyday language to describe something that happens or is done immediately, without any delay.

See also: instantly.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,555 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.