instant

Definitions

in- (upon) + st (stand) + -ant = 'standing right upon (you).' An instant is the moment that is standing immediately present — right now, with no gap. From 'this present moment' came 'happening at once' (instant reply) and modern 'instant coffee' (ready at once). The -ant is a suffix, so st is the root.

Common Collocations

• 1.in an instant一瞬间
• 2.instant access即时访问
• 3.instant coffee速溶咖啡
• 4.instant reply即时回复

Example Sentences

• 1.

  For an instant, she thought she had seen a ghost.

• 2.

  The app gives you instant access to your files.

• 3.

  He made himself a cup of instant coffee.