Moments Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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moments

[ˈməʊmənts ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

time

A very brief period of time, a specific point in time.

Synonyms

instant, occasion, second.

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Word Description / Examples
moments

Used when referring to brief periods of time or particular instances that hold significance.

  • We shared so many special moments together.
  • There were moments when I doubted myself.
instant

Refers to a very short period of time, often meaning immediately or without any delay.

  • I knew the answer in an instant.
  • The decision was made in an instant.
second

Refers to one-sixtieth of a minute, often used to indicate a very brief amount of time.

  • Hold on for a second.
  • It only takes a second to send a message.
occasion

Used to describe a particular event, celebration, or time when something specific happens.

  • Her birthday was a joyous occasion.
  • I've only worn this dress on special occasions.

Examples of usage

  • I will cherish the moments we spent together.
  • The special moment when they exchanged vows.
  • In that fleeting moment, everything changed.
Context #2 | Noun

emotional significance

A moment of great importance or significance.

Synonyms

event, milestone, occasion.

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Word Description / Examples
moments

Used to describe short, specific periods of time that are often memorable or significant.

  • She captured all the special moments during their vacation.
  • There are moments in life that you never forget.
occasion

Refers to a special or noteworthy event or happening, often celebrated or commemorated.

  • Her wedding was a joyous occasion.
  • The family gathers for special occasions like birthdays and holidays.
event

Refers to an occurrence that is planned or happens at a specific time, often involving multiple people.

  • The company is hosting a big event next month.
  • The graduation ceremony was a grand event.
milestone

Used to denote a significant stage or achievement in someone's life or career.

  • Reaching her 30th birthday felt like a major milestone.
  • Publishing his first book was a milestone in his literary career.

Examples of usage

  • It was a proud moment for the family.
  • The winning goal was a defining moment in the game.
  • She had a moment of clarity.
Context #3 | Noun

photography

A very short period of time during which a picture is taken.

Synonyms

photo opportunity, picture, snapshot.

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Word Description / Examples
moments

Repeated word indicates emphasis on significant short periods of time, usually in a poetic or reflective manner.

  • Moments, moments, they fly by so quickly
snapshot

This refers to a casual or quick photograph, often taken spontaneously without much preparation.

  • I managed to get a snapshot of the kids playing in the park
  • This snapshot really captures the moment
photo opportunity

This term is often used to describe a specific event or setup where taking a photograph is ideal, often used in media and promotional contexts.

  • The ribbon-cutting ceremony was a perfect photo opportunity for the local press
picture

This word is generally used to refer to any visual representation, typically a photograph, drawing, or painting. It is a common and versatile term.

  • Can you show me the picture you took yesterday? This picture looks amazing on your wall

Examples of usage

  • Capturing the perfect moment on camera.
  • The photographer waited for the right moment to click.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Our brains are capable of remembering significant moments better due to emotional connections.
  • Studies show that people often recall peak moments of joy or sadness more vividly than everyday occurrences.
  • The 'Ziegarnik effect' suggests we remember moments that remain unfinished or unresolved better than completed actions.

Pop Culture

  • Songs and poems often celebrate pivotal moments, making them memorable in our lives, like 'moments that matter'.
  • In cinema, a 'moment' can signify a turning point for characters, like realizing love or facing a challenge.

Science

  • In physics, 'moment' refers to the concept of momentum, measuring how much motion an object has.
  • Moments are also considered in relativistic physics, relating time and space to experience events differently based on speed.

Literature

  • Classic literature often uses specific moments to signify character growth or change, impacting the story's direction.
  • Authors like Marcel Proust explore the idea of 'moments' to delve into memory and perception in profound ways.

Origin of 'moments'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'momentum', which means a small amount of time.
  • In medieval times, it referred to a brief measurement of time, like a moment in prayer or reflection.

The word 'moments' originated from the Latin word 'momentum', meaning 'movement' or 'motion'. Over time, it evolved to refer to a brief period of time or a specific point in time. The concept of moments is essential in various aspects of life, from capturing special memories to experiencing fleeting instances of significance. The word has been widely used in literature, music, and everyday conversations to evoke feelings of nostalgia, importance, and transience.


See also: momentarily, momentary, momentous, momentum.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,155, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.