instantly
IN-stuhnt-lee/ˈɪnstəntli/
- 1Right away, without any waiting.
Like a light that turns on the second you flip the switch.
The glue dries instantly, so you have to work fast.
He instantly knew something was wrong.
Similarimmediately, straightaway, promptly, directly
Oppositeslowly, gradually, eventually, later
Note
- 2Used to mean 'as soon as' when joining two parts of a sentence.
Instantly the bell rang, the children ran outside.
She phoned me instantly she got home.
Similarimmediately, directly, once
Note
- 3In a strong, urgent way, like when someone keeps asking until they get an answer.
Like a child who keeps pulling your sleeve until you listen.
She begged her father instantly, asking again and again until he said yes.
Sir, my lord would instantly speak with you.
c. 1602, William Shakespeare, “The Tragedie of Troylus and Cressida”Here, instantly means urgently, with strong need.Note
Less common meaning
- 4At the same time as something else.
As if he mastred there a double spirit Of teaching, and of learning instantly
c. 1597, William Shakespeare, “The First Part of Henry the Fourth,”Here, instantly means at the same time.Note
Showing meanings only.
Practice
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Origin
It comes from the word "instant" plus the ending "-ly."