momentary fancy

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "momentary fancy" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a fleeting or temporary desire or whim that may not be serious or lasting. Example: "His decision to travel to Paris was just a momentary fancy, quickly replaced by the reality of his work commitments."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

You look for different actors you want to work with or different subjects you want to explore, or sometimes it's just a momentary fancy.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Momentary aberration?

The Guardian - Books

This gave declarer momentary hope.

The New York Times

A momentary grumble?

The Guardian - Books

Ecological momentary assessment.

Nature

"Fashion is superficial, momentary.

The New York Times - Magazine

Experience momentary bliss.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

A momentary pause.

The Guardian - Sport

It is a momentary reprieve.

The New York Times - Books

"Hot is momentary.

Stanford University

Fancy names, fancy personas.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "momentary fancy" to describe a fleeting desire or impulse that is not particularly significant or long-lasting. This phrase works well in both formal and informal contexts to add a touch of whimsy or lightheartedness.

Common error

Avoid using "momentary fancy" in highly formal or serious contexts where a more direct and less whimsical expression of desire is needed. In those situations, consider using phrases like "temporary interest" or "passing desire" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "momentary fancy" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the object of a verb or preposition. It describes a fleeting or temporary desire, whim, or impulse. Ludwig confirms its usability, further validating its function.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "momentary fancy" is a valid and usable expression in English, as confirmed by Ludwig. It denotes a brief and often whimsical desire or impulse. While relatively rare in occurrence, primarily appearing in News & Media contexts, its grammatical correctness and usage consistency make it a suitable choice for describing fleeting inclinations. When aiming for greater formality, alternatives like "temporary interest" might be more appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

fleeting whim

Emphasizes the brief and impulsive nature of the desire.

passing desire

Highlights the temporary quality of the longing.

transient notion

Focuses on the short-lived idea or impulse.

brief infatuation

Suggests a sudden but quickly fading attraction.

short-lived impulse

Emphasizes the impulsive nature and lack of duration.

temporary inclination

Highlights a leaning or preference that is not permanent.

quick urge

Focuses on the sudden and immediate nature of the desire.

casual interest

Suggests a light and easily dismissed attraction.

ephemeral craving

Highlights the very short-lived and intense desire.

flight of fancy

Implies a whimsical and imaginative, though unrealistic, desire.

FAQs

How can I use "momentary fancy" in a sentence?

You can use "momentary fancy" to describe a fleeting desire or whim. For example, "His decision to learn French was just a momentary fancy, soon forgotten when he discovered a new hobby."

What's a good alternative to "momentary fancy"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "fleeting whim", "passing desire", or "transient notion".

Is "momentary fancy" formal or informal?

"Momentary fancy" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but it leans slightly towards the informal due to the word "fancy". In very formal settings, consider using a more straightforward phrase like "temporary interest".

What's the difference between "momentary fancy" and "flight of fancy"?

While both phrases suggest a whimsical idea, "momentary fancy" refers to a brief desire or impulse, whereas "flight of fancy" implies a more extended period of imaginative and often unrealistic thinking.