it is fleeting

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is fleeting" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe something that is temporary or short-lived, often in a poetic or reflective context. Example: "Life's moments are precious, yet it is fleeting, reminding us to cherish every experience."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

TV is wonderful, but it is fleeting.

The New York Times

Yes, but it is fleeting, so in essence it is the ultimate luxury.

The New York Times

Although everyone asks him about the nudity, which is obscured, Mr. Wilson said it is fleeting.

The New York Times

It is fleeting when it is driven simply by downsizing and longer hours.

The New York Times

But like all life's chances, it is fleeting and about to pass.

The New York Times

That's not a new idea, but the song reminds us that present pleasure is sweet because it is fleeting.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

It was fleeting.

The New York Times - Sports

And when it came, it was fleeting.

The New York Times

It's fleeting, but permanently available.

The Guardian

"It's flattering and it's fleeting," he said.

The New York Times

But it was fleeting and, taken alone, restricted in emotionality.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Combine "it is fleeting" with sensory details to make the transience more vivid and relatable to the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "it is fleeting" in highly technical or scientific writing where more precise terms like "temporary" or "transient" might be more appropriate. This phrase often carries an emotional connotation, making it less suitable for objective reporting.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is fleeting" functions as a descriptive statement, characterizing something as transient or short-lived. Ludwig AI shows it commonly appears to qualify experiences, opportunities, or abstract concepts, imbuing them with a sense of impermanence.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

82%

Wiki

9%

Science

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "it is fleeting" effectively communicates the transient nature of something, encouraging a deeper appreciation for the present moment. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage, particularly within News & Media. While versatile, it's best reserved for contexts where its slightly elevated and emotive tone enhances the message. Alternatives such as "it is temporary" or "it is transient" offer similar meanings, but might lack the subtle emotional resonance of the original phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is temporary

Emphasizes the limited duration of something.

it is transient

Highlights the impermanent nature of something.

it is ephemeral

Suggests a very short lifespan or existence.

it is short-lived

Directly indicates a brief period of existence.

it is momentary

Focuses on the very brief duration of something.

it does not last

Simple way of saying that something is not permanent.

it is not permanent

Highlights the lack of lasting quality.

it is passing

Emphasizes the movement and non-stationary nature of something.

it will soon pass

Adds a sense of inevitability to its end.

it won't last long

Informal way of indicating a short duration.

FAQs

How can I use "it is fleeting" in a sentence?

You can use "it is fleeting" to describe something that is temporary or doesn't last long. For example, "Youth is a precious gift, but "it is fleeting", so cherish every moment".

What are some alternatives to "it is fleeting"?

Some alternatives include "it is temporary", "it is transient", or "it is ephemeral". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "it is fleeting" formal or informal?

"It is fleeting" is generally considered neutral to slightly formal. While appropriate for many contexts, a more informal alternative might be "it doesn't last long".

What does "it is fleeting" emphasize?

"It is fleeting" emphasizes the transient and impermanent nature of something, often with a hint of wistfulness or appreciation for the present.