instantly

Everyday

Instantly means at once, in an instant, with no time at all in between. tree →

In the lessons

In science lessons some reactions happen instantly (a light comes on instantly when you close the circuit); in safety lessons, burns should be cooled instantly. In stories a character recognises someone instantly. Phrases: almost instantly, instantly recognisable, died instantly.

Examples

• The light came on instantly. tree →
• The ice cream melted almost instantly in the sun. tree →
• I recognised her instantly. tree →
• Light travels so fast it seems to arrive instantly. tree →
• The sugar dissolved instantly in the hot tea. tree →
• He instantly felt better after the drink. tree →
• Instantly the truth flashed upon him. tree →

Note

Adverb from «instant» (a very short moment). «Instant» food (instant noodles) is ready very quickly. Close to «immediately»; «instantly» stresses that no time passes at all.