momentary gratification

USAGE SUMMARY

"momentary gratification" is correct and usable in written English.
This phrase is used to describe pleasure or satisfaction that is short-lived or fleeting. For example, "He found some momentary gratification from eating a snack, but then felt guilty afterward."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Either our stomachs have grown weaker or our brains stronger, and we are not willing to sacrifice future well-being for the sake of a momentary gratification, even though sanctioned by the precept and example of our ancestors".

The New York Times - Magazine

I was turning money into lead, and lead into waste, merely for the momentary gratification of repeatedly tensing and relaxing, all without deeper meaning.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

Any momentary dietary gratification will come with guilt, regret, and probably cursing your skinny jeans that mysteriously "shrunk" in the dryer when you put them on the following morning.

Huffington Post

"Every Young Woman's Battle," for example, tells teen-agers that "the momentary relief" of "self-gratification" can lead to "shame, low self-esteem, and fear of what others might think or that something is wrong with you".

The New Yorker

Momentary aberration?

The Guardian - Books

Ego gratification.

The New York Times

"People want instant gratification.

The New York Times

You practice delayed gratification.

Independent

This gave declarer momentary hope.

The New York Times

So gratification delayed is gratification foregone.

The Guardian - Books

It is a momentary reprieve.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing long-term goals, contrast the allure of "momentary gratification" with the benefits of sustained effort and delayed rewards to emphasize the importance of patience and discipline.

Common error

Avoid equating "momentary gratification" with true happiness or long-term fulfillment. Overemphasizing fleeting pleasures can lead to neglecting deeper, more meaningful sources of satisfaction.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "momentary gratification" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where the adjective "momentary" modifies the noun "gratification". As noted by Ludwig, it describes a fleeting or short-lived feeling of satisfaction. This phrase is commonly used to discuss choices and behaviors related to immediate versus long-term rewards.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "momentary gratification" describes a short-lived satisfaction, often contrasted with long-term goals. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability in English. While relatively rare in occurrence, primarily appearing in News & Media, it serves the purpose of highlighting the fleeting nature of certain pleasures and the importance of considering future consequences. Recognizing the difference between "momentary gratification" and sustainable fulfillment is crucial for making informed decisions and achieving lasting well-being.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

momentary satisfaction

Simple word order variation.

fleeting pleasure

Focuses more on the transient nature of the enjoyment.

transient satisfaction

Highlights the temporary aspect of the fulfillment.

short-lived joy

Emphasizes the brevity of the positive emotion.

passing delight

Suggests a brief and inconsequential source of happiness.

temporary indulgence

Implies a treat or luxury that is not meant to last.

ephemeral gratification

Uses a more formal synonym for short-lived.

quick thrill

Highlights the excitement and speed of the gratification.

instant kick

Uses a more informal term for immediate satisfaction.

brief contentment

Focuses on the short duration of the feeling of satisfaction.

FAQs

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

You can use "momentary gratification" to describe something that provides short-term pleasure but may not be beneficial in the long run. For example: "He sought "momentary gratification" in sugary snacks, despite knowing the long-term health consequences."

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

Alternatives to "momentary gratification" include "fleeting pleasure", "transient satisfaction", or "short-lived joy".

What is the difference between "momentary gratification" and "delayed gratification"?

"Momentary gratification" refers to immediate pleasure, while "delayed gratification" involves resisting immediate pleasure in favor of a greater reward later. One focuses on instant satisfaction, while the other emphasizes long-term benefits.

Is "momentary gratification" always a bad thing?

"Momentary gratification" isn't inherently bad, but relying on it excessively can be detrimental. It's important to balance immediate pleasures with long-term goals and well-being. Too much focus on instant rewards can hinder personal growth and lead to poor choices.