glimpse
Definition
The meaning: A glimpse is a brief or partial view of something; a quick look or momentary insight.
La signification : Glimpse signifie « un aperçu » ou « un coup d'œil rapide » sur quelque chose.
Here's an example of use: "She caught a glimpse of the actor as he stepped into the car."
The word is often used when the view or understanding is fleeting or incomplete.
Word Analysis
French equivalents »» Un aperçu »» Un coup d'œil »» Une vision fugace Ⓐ Elle a eu un aperçu de la vie à New York pendant son voyage. Ⓑ J’ai eu un coup d'œil rapide de son travail, ça semble prometteur. English equivalents »» A peek »» A flash »» A quick look Ⓐ He gave me a quick glimpse of the project before the meeting. Ⓑ We only had a glimpse of the mountain before the clouds covered it.
Dialogue
Liam: "Did you see the bride's dress?" Ella: "Just a glimpse as she walked by. It looked stunning!" Liam: "I hope we’ll see more at the reception."
Etymology
Origin: The word glimpse comes from Middle English glimsen, meaning to shine faintly or appear briefly. Related to the word glimmer.
Modern Usage: Since the 15th century, it has come to mean a brief look or quick perception.
Connotation: Neutral and descriptive; often used when something is seen or understood quickly or incompletely.
Grammar Note: Can be used as both noun and verb: “She glimpsed the fox in the woods” or “He gave me a glimpse of the plans.”
Audience
Glimpse is common in everyday English, in both written and spoken form. It's used to describe momentary views or insights, whether visual, emotional, or intellectual.
When to use: Use this word when something is brief, hard to catch, or incomplete. It's helpful in storytelling, reporting, and descriptive writing. Example: “The book offers a glimpse into 18th-century rural life.”
Dictionary Meaning
The Free Dictionary defines it as...
1. A brief, incomplete view or look.
2. [Archaic] A brief flash of light.
Here's an example of use: "from the window he could catch a glimpse of the lake."
News Snippet
"With so many Massospondylus fossils around, palaeontologists have been given a rare glimpse into the entire life cycle of this dinosaur.
They have been able to examine embryos, babies, teenagers and the elderly. A rarity in science where an entire species can be represented by a single fossil."
Poem Extract
Affirmation [excerpt]
To grow old is to lose everything.
Aging, everybody knows it.
Even when we are young,
we glimpse it sometimes, and nod our heads
when a grandfather dies.
Donald Hall
Read the Full Poem
Extra! Extra!
For a fun and engaging exploration of our word of the day, watch the following…Peep vs Peer vs Glimpse
Take a glimpse at 'glimpse'
WordReference
When exploring the nuances of words, sometimes dictionaries don't provide enough context. The WordReference Forums offer insightful discussions that delve into the subtleties of language, including idiomatic expressions, usage nuances, and translations across languages.
Here are some quick links to help you navigate WordReference for deeper understanding:
» English⇄English–Discuss and learn about words and their usage.
» English⇄French–Explore translations and linguistic nuances
» Synonyms⇄Antonyms–Contextual variations, etc.
Common Idioms & Expressions Related to "Glimpse"
Catch a glimpse
To see something or someone for a very brief moment, often only partially or in passing.
Example: "I managed to catch a glimpse of the actor as he got into his car."
Glimpse into the future
A quick or partial view of what the future might hold; an insight into upcoming events or trends.
Example: "This new technology offers a glimpse into the future of healthcare."
Glimpse of hope
A small sign or indication that a positive outcome is possible in a difficult situation.
Example: "After days of searching, they finally found a glimpse of hope in the rescue efforts."
Flash of insight
A sudden, brief understanding or realization about something, often compared to a glimpse of clarity.
Example: "During the discussion, she had a flash of insight that changed her perspective."
Peek behind the curtain
To get a rare or brief look at something usually hidden or not meant to be seen by the public.
Example: "The documentary gives us a peek behind the curtain of the fashion industry."
Momentary vision
A very brief mental or visual impression of something, often fleeting and unclear.
Example: "He had a momentary vision of her standing in the doorway, but it was just his imagination."
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