The phrase “before one can blink” is a common idiom used in English to describe a situation where something happens very quickly, almost instantaneously. This phrase is often used to describe a sudden or unexpected event that happens before someone even has a chance to react.
Definitions
The phrase “before one can blink” means that something happens so quickly that one does not have time to react or respond. It is often used to describe a situation where something happens unexpectedly and catches someone off guard.
Origin
The origin of the phrase “before one can blink” is not clear. However, it is believed to have originated in the United States in the early 20th century. The phrase has become a popular idiom in English and is used in everyday conversation.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Oxford English Dictionary, the phrase “before one can blink” means “before one has time to react or respond.” The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines the phrase as “happening so quickly that one does not have time to react or respond.”
Associations
The phrase “before one can blink” is often associated with sudden and unexpected events. It is used to describe situations where something happens so quickly that one does not have time to react or respond.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of the phrase “before one can blink” include “in a flash,” “in the blink of an eye,” “in an instant,” and “instantaneously.”
Antonyms
Antonyms of the phrase “before one can blink” include “slowly,” “gradually,” “deliberately,” and “methodically.”
The same root words
The phrase “before one can blink” does not have any root words, as it is an idiom.
Example Sentences
- The car came out of nowhere and hit me before I could blink.
- The thief stole the purse and disappeared before anyone could blink.
- The fireworks exploded in the sky before we could even blink.
- The lightning struck the tree before we could blink.
The phrase “before one can blink” is a common idiom used in English to describe a situation where something happens very quickly, almost instantaneously. It is often associated with sudden and unexpected events and is used to describe situations where something happens so quickly that one does not have time to react or respond.