Momentarily: Definition and Synonyms
momentarily – Definition and Part of Speech
The word “momentarily” typically functions as an adverb, although it can have multiple meanings depending on its context:
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Briefly or for a short time: Often used to convey that something will happen soon or is happening temporarily.
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In the immediate future (US usage): Particularly common in American English, where it suggests that an action will take place very shortly.
Core Synonyms
Here’s a table of main synonyms for “momentarily,” capturing their nuances and typical contexts:
| Synonym | Brief Definition/Nuance | Example Sentence | Style/Register |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temporarily | Indicates something is occurring for a limited duration. | “She will temporarily leave her position to pursue studies.” | Formal/Business |
| Shortly | Suggests an event or action that will happen soon. | “We’ll be with you shortly, please hold on.” | Informal/Professional |
| Imminently | Refers to something happening very soon and almost immediately. | “The storm is approaching imminently; prepare accordingly.” | Formal/Academic |
| For the moment | Indicates a temporary situation or condition. | “For the moment, we will focus on these two issues.” | Informal/Conversational |
| Instantly | Suggests an action happening immediately without delay. | “The lights turned off instantly when I pressed the button.” | Casual/Technical |
Usage Notes
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Temporarily is often used in business and formal contexts where there’s a need to clarify the short-term nature of a change or condition.
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Shortly works well in both professional and everyday contexts, conveying that something will happen soon without implying a precise timeframe.
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Imminently carries a more urgent connotation than “momentarily,” making it suitable for academic writing or situations where immediacy is stressed.
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For the moment is conversational, often used to acknowledge a temporary condition while indicating plans might change soon.
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Instantly emphasizes speed and immediate reaction, commonly found in technical descriptions or casual conversation about quick actions.
Common Pitfalls
A frequent point of confusion arises from the dual meanings of “momentarily.” In American English, it can imply something will occur very soon (“in a moment”), which contrasts with its more traditional sense of occurring briefly. To avoid misunderstanding:
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Clarify context: Ensure surrounding sentences make clear whether you mean “soon” or “briefly.”
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Consider audience and region: If writing for an international audience or in formal contexts, use synonyms like “shortly” to convey the intended meaning clearly.
Final Recap
To summarize, while “momentarily” often denotes a brief occurrence or an imminent event, its exact interpretation can vary. The synonyms provided offer nuanced alternatives that better suit specific situations and registers:
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Temporarily for formal/business settings emphasizing short duration.
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Shortly for informal/professional contexts indicating something will happen soon.
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Imminently for academic/formal texts highlighting urgency.
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For the moment in casual, conversational exchanges denoting temporary conditions.
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Instantly when quick action or reaction is key in both technical and everyday language.
Encourage learners to practice these synonyms by creating sentences that suit various contexts. Understanding these nuances will enhance both written and spoken communication skills effectively.