a fleeting instance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a fleeting instance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a moment that is brief or transitory, often emphasizing the temporary nature of an event or experience. Example: "In a fleeting instance, she realized the importance of cherishing every moment with her loved ones."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science & Research

Wiki

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Only a few antiparticles have been seen--and these were painstakingly created in accelerators, only to vanish within a fleeting instance.

Science Magazine

From the next century-and-a-half, only a few more examples have been identified, none calling for more than a fleeting instance of the form.

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

"You're not a fake fleeting instance of you.

The Economist

For fleeting instances here and there, Mr. Levine's lightness of touch seemed about to float off altogether.

The New York Times - Arts

During the first half of this disappointing Nets season, the team, in fleeting instances, came into focus only to fade back to fuzzy.

The New York Times - Sports

For a fleeting instant, it almost seemed possible.

The New York Times

It wasn't a fleeting instant captured by a photographer.

The Guardian - Opinion

It was a fleeting instant, it's true.

Los Angeles Times

The care of those around them, a poignant instance, a fleeting moment of affection and myriad sediments of tenderness, these may coalesce in the mind of a new mother to chase away, like an industrious fan with a harsh yet invigorating breeze, all inappropriate thoughts and unpleasant feelings.

The Guardian - Books

A fleeting sensation of omnipotence?

The New York Times - Magazine

She gave a fleeting smile.

The Guardian - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a fleeting instance" when you want to emphasize not only the shortness of a moment but also its potential significance within a larger context. For example, "In a fleeting instance, she made a decision that would change her life forever."

Common error

Avoid using "a fleeting instance" when a more concrete description would be more impactful. Instead of saying "He felt a fleeting instance of sadness", try "He felt a pang of sadness."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a fleeting instance" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun. It describes the quality of the noun (instance) as being brief or transient, similar to how Ludwig AI describes it.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Science

27%

Wiki

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a fleeting instance" is grammatically correct and serves to describe a brief, transient moment. While Ludwig AI confirms its usability, the phrase appears infrequently in both formal and informal contexts, leaning towards a neutral register. Its primary function is to emphasize brevity, as demonstrated by the examples. Related phrases include "a brief moment" and "a momentary occurrence", offering similar connotations. When using "a fleeting instance", aim for situations where you want to highlight the temporary yet potentially significant nature of the event, while avoiding overuse of abstract language. Overall, it's an accurate expression with specific use cases.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a brief moment

Emphasizes the short duration, focusing on the temporal aspect.

a momentary occurrence

Highlights the event's brief and transient nature.

a transient episode

Stresses the temporary quality of the event or experience.

a passing phase

Suggests a temporary stage or period that will eventually end.

a short-lived event

Directly indicates the event's lack of longevity.

a temporary situation

Focuses on the impermanence of the conditions.

a flash in the pan

An idiomatic expression for something that shows initial promise but quickly fails.

a passing fancy

Describes a brief and superficial interest or attraction.

a quick glimpse

Focuses on the brief visual experience.

a split second

Indicates an extremely short duration of time.

FAQs

What does "a fleeting instance" mean?

The phrase "a fleeting instance" refers to a moment or occurrence that is very brief and doesn't last long. It emphasizes the temporary nature of something.

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

You can use it to describe a brief period of time or a short-lived experience. For example: "For "a fleeting moment", I thought I saw her in the crowd."

What are some alternatives to "a fleeting instance"?

Some alternatives include "a brief moment", "a transient episode", or "a momentary occurrence". These phrases all convey the idea of something happening quickly and not lasting long.

Is "a fleeting instance" formal or informal?

"A fleeting instance" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but it's more common in writing or speech where a slightly more elevated tone is appropriate. In casual conversation, "a quick moment" or "a brief second" might be more common.