Definition of Fleeting
Quick Meaning of Fleeting
Passing very quickly and lasting only a short time; moving swiftly and hard to hold onto.
Detailed Definition of Fleeting
Lasting for a very short time; passing quickly through the mind or past the senses; swift and transitory, often suggesting something slipped by before being fully grasped.
How to Pronounce Fleeting
Stress pattern: Oo (2-syllable word).
Tip: FLEE-ting. Stress the first syllable (FLEE). Two syllables: FLEE-ting. The double 'e' is pronounced like the 'ee' in 'free'.
Watch out: Some learners mispronounce the 'ee' sound or stress the second syllable. Correct: FLEE-ting.
Origin and Etymology of Fleeting
From Old English 'fleot' (floating, flowing), related to 'fleet' (swift). The Germanic root relates to flowing movement and speed. Applied to temporal and sensory experiences since Middle English, emphasizing the swift passage of moments.
How to Use Fleeting in a Sentence
Each example shows “fleeting” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“A fleeting glimpse of the celebrity in the crowded airport was all the fans managed before security whisked her away.”
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“The childhood memory, vivid for a moment, proved fleeting as older experiences crowded it out.”
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“The fleeting smile on his face suggested both sadness and resignation about the inevitable separation.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Fleeting
Common Synonyms for Fleeting
Smart Synonyms for Fleeting — When to Use Each
- ephemeral
- Brief and transient; more abstract and philosophical
- momentary
- Lasting a moment; shorter and more sudden
- transitory
- Temporary; passing; emphasizes impermanence
Antonyms of Fleeting
Common Collocations with Fleeting
These phrases pair with “fleeting” in everyday English:
- fleeting moment
- fleeting glimpse
- fleeting memory
- fleeting smile
- fleeting glance
Common Mistakes When Using Fleeting
Even fluent speakers slip up with “fleeting”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: The fleeting memory stayed with him permanently throughout his life.
- ✓ Correct: The fleeting memory slipped away before he could fully grasp it.
- Why: Fleeting means brief and quick to pass. 'Permanently throughout his life' contradicts this.
- ✗ Wrong: She had a fleeting realization that she would never forget.
- ✓ Correct: She had a fleeting realization that disappeared as quickly as it came.
- Why: Fleeting implies something quickly forgotten. 'Never forget' contradicts this.
- ✗ Wrong: His fleeting presence lasted throughout the entire year.
- ✓ Correct: His fleeting visit lasted only a few hours before departure.
- Why: Fleeting means brief and transitory. 'Throughout the entire year' contradicts this temporal quality.
Other Forms of Fleeting
- Noun: fleetingness
- Adjective: fleeting
- Adverb: fleetingly
Frequently Asked Questions About Fleeting
What is the meaning of "Fleeting"?
Passing very quickly and lasting only a short time; moving swiftly and hard to hold onto.
How do you pronounce "Fleeting"?
The IPA is /ˈfliːtɪŋ/. FLEE-ting. Stress the first syllable (FLEE). Two syllables: FLEE-ting. The double 'e' is pronounced like the 'ee' in 'free'.
What part of speech is "Fleeting"?
"Fleeting" is an adjective at C2 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Fleeting"?
Common synonyms include ephemeral, transitory, momentary.
How do you use "Fleeting" in a sentence?
For example: "A fleeting glimpse of the celebrity in the crowded airport was all the fans managed before security whisked her away."