momentary - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
momentary Word Meanings
- for a very short time
- temporarily
- in a moment
momentary Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
momentary Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈməʊ.mentəri/
US
/ˈmoʊ.mən.ˌtɛri/
momentary Word Etymology
momentary = moment + ary; from Middle French, Latin root 'momentum'. Picture a fleeting moment like a spark that quickly fizzles out.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Momentary describes something lasting only for a very short time, a fleeting instant that passes quickly. It emphasizes transience: a momentary pause, a momentary lapse, or a momentary feeling that fades almost as soon as it appears. In practice, you use momentary for brief events and states contrasted with longer or ongoing ones. People sometimes confuse momentary with temporary, but momentary underlines the exact duration being only a moment, not longer. The concept ties to the idea of a spark that fizzles, a brief flash in time. When you want to sound precise, reserve momentary for crisp, short lived moments.
Usage Reminders
- Use momentary with a noun to show brevity
- Do not use with ongoing actions
- Contrast momentary with temporary to show exact duration
- Prefer momentary for crisp, precise moments
- Avoid describing long feelings as momentary
- Remember the adverb is momentarily
Common Misconceptions
- Momentary means temporary or long lasting
- It can describe ongoing actions
- It is a synonym for instantaneous
- It describes moods lasting minutes or hours
- It is always used with people
Thinking Differences
English tends to label a duration as momentary to highlight precision about a very brief instant; learners often confuse it with temporary or assume it implies longer time.
Learning Tips
- Pair momentary with nouns like pause, lapse, or interruption to signal brevity
- Compare with temporary to feel the time length difference
- Use momentary for precise, crisp moments not long feelings
- Practice paraphrasing: 'a momentary interruption' vs 'a temporary interruption'
- Remember the adverb form is momentarily for how something happens
- Read authentic examples to see natural collocations
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the definition of 'momentary'?
A.lasting for a very short time
B.a long period of time
C.permanent
D.repeatedly occurring
Step 2: Usage
Choose the sentence that uses 'momentary' correctly.
A.Her smile was momentary, fading quickly.
B.The momentary eclipse lasted for hours.
C.They planned a momentary vacation for the summer.
D.He has a momentary habit of running marathons.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which of the following is most similar to 'momentary'?
A.stable
B.perpetual
C.temporary
D.viable
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'momentary'?
A.lasting
B.fleeting
C.brief
D.quick
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where something is momentary?
A.A fleeting glance can change someone's opinion.
B.They enjoyed a momentary break during the lecture.
C.The sunset was breathtaking but didn't last long.
D.It was a lengthy discussion about the project.
Related Listening
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