Synonyms for

Instant

Verb / ˈɪnstʌnt / Another word for instant — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

happening or done at once; immediate

Synonyms & similar words

insistent newyorkminute blinkofaneye trice crying flash inst splitsecond clamant twinkling wink exigent instantaneous minute heartbeat jiffy second moment immediate prompt quick swift sudden abrupt instantaneous expeditious fast speedy momentary transitory ephemeral fleeting passing short-lived temporary unanticipated unforeseen unlooked-for

Synonyms by register

Formal

immediate prompt forthwith expeditious

Informal

right away quick now ASAP

Literary

fleeting ephemeral momentary

Antonyms

delayed later future postponed gradual prolonged

Common collocations

  • instant coffee
  • instant message
  • instant replay
  • instant noodles
  • instant classic
  • instant gratification
  • instant access

Word family

noun instant
adjective instant
adverb instantly

Usage note

While 'instant' can function as a noun (e.g., 'in an instant'), it is most commonly used as an adjective. Be mindful of its strong connotation of immediacy.

Example sentences

  1. I made instant noodles for lunch.
  2. The microwave heats up food in an instant.
  3. She became an instant celebrity after her video went viral.
  4. The medicine provided instant relief from the pain.
  5. He regretted sending the message the instant he hit the send button.

Quotes

  • In an instant, the future of a man, a family, a fortune, a country, hangs trembling in the balance, and is decided.
  • The only way to live is to accept each moment as an unrepeatable miracle, which is exactly what it is: a miracle and unrepeatable.
  • Instant gratification is not soon enough.

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