a fleeting delay

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a fleeting delay" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a brief or temporary pause or interruption in a process or event. Example: "There was a fleeting delay in the delivery of the package, but it arrived just in time for the event."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

A fleeting kiss.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

A fleeting sensation of omnipotence?

The New York Times - Magazine

For Damon, it was a fleeting keepsake.

The New York Times - Sports

Everyone has a fleeting moment of stardom.

Independent

She gave a fleeting smile.

The Guardian - Travel

Opportunity can be a fleeting thing.

The New York Times - Sports

It was a fleeting visit.

The New York Times - Sports

But that was a fleeting notion.

The New York Times - Sports

A fleeting catharsis for an angered public?

The Washington Post

But that image has evaporated, like a fleeting desert mirage.

The New York Times

Kessel smiled, yawned, then offered a fleeting look of resignation.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a fleeting delay" to emphasize that an interruption is very brief and shouldn't cause significant concern. It's suitable when you want to reassure the audience about the temporary nature of an issue.

Common error

Avoid using "a fleeting delay" when the delay is actually substantial or has significant consequences. This can downplay the issue and mislead the audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a fleeting delay" functions as a noun phrase, where "fleeting" modifies "delay". It describes the nature of the delay, emphasizing its short duration. Although Ludwig has no examples, the structure adheres to standard English grammar.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a fleeting delay" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe a very short interruption. As confirmed by Ludwig, it adheres to standard English grammar. While no specific examples were found, it is most suitable for neutral to formal contexts where minimizing the impact of the delay is desired. Alternatives include "a momentary delay" or "a brief interruption". The phrase is best used when the delay is genuinely insignificant, avoiding misrepresentation of its impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a momentary delay

Replaces "fleeting" with "momentary", emphasizing the very short duration of the delay.

a passing delay

Uses "passing" as a synonym for "fleeting", highlighting the transient nature of the delay.

a brief interruption

Substitutes both "fleeting" and "delay" with synonyms, focusing on the act of interrupting rather than the delay itself.

a transient delay

Uses a more formal synonym for "fleeting", indicating that the delay is temporary and will not last long.

a negligible delay

Focuses on the insignificance of the delay.

a short pause

Replaces "delay" with "pause", suggesting a temporary cessation rather than an impediment.

a split-second delay

Highlights the very short duration of the delay, almost instantaneous.

a temporary setback

Shifts the focus to the negative impact of the delay, framing it as a minor obstacle.

a minor hold-up

Replaces "delay" with the informal term "hold-up", suggesting a small impediment.

a quick halt

Emphasizes the speed and suddenness of the delay.

FAQs

What does "a fleeting delay" mean?

The phrase "a fleeting delay" refers to a very short or temporary pause or interruption in something. It implies that the delay is brief and will not last long.

How can I use "a fleeting delay" in a sentence?

You can use "a fleeting delay" to describe a brief interruption. For example: "There was "a fleeting delay" in the train schedule, but it arrived on time."

What can I say instead of "a fleeting delay"?

Alternatives to "a fleeting delay" include "a momentary delay", "a brief interruption", or "a short pause". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "a fleeting delay" in formal writing?

Yes, "a fleeting delay" is suitable for formal writing when you want to convey that an interruption is very brief and insignificant. However, ensure that the context aligns with this connotation.