at a moment’s notice: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘at a moment's notice’ mean?
The idiom "at a moment's notice" means being ready to act or respond immediately, without any delay or hesitation.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "upon the instant" means immediately or without delay.
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The idiom "in the wink of an eye" is a commonly used expression in the English language. It describes a very short period of time, suggesting that something happens rapidly or instantaneously. The phrase is believed to have originated from the action of winking, which is the rapid closing and opening of one eye.
The idiom "in the twinkling of an eye" means something happens extremely quickly or instantaneously.
The idiom "in the twinkling of an eye" is a common phrase used to express the notion of something happening very quickly or suddenly. It is often used to describe an action or event that occurs so rapidly that it seems to happen almost instantaneously. The phrase has origins dating back to at least the 14th century and has persisted in the English language ever since.
In the nick of time is an English idiom that describes an action or event that happens just in time to prevent something negative from occurring. It emphasizes the narrow margin or last-minute nature of the occurrence.
The idiom "in the blink of an eye" means something happening extremely quickly or instantaneously.
The idiom "in the blink of an eye" is a widely recognized expression in the English language. It is often used to describe something that happens quickly or instantaneously, emphasizing the speed or brevity of an event or action. The origins of this idiom can be traced back to the physiology of blinking and its associations with quickness and reflexes.
Instantaneous Response
At a moment's notice is an idiom that is widely used in the English language. While the exact origin of the phrase is unclear, its meaning and usage are well-established.
The idiom "at a moment's notice" is typically used to refer to something that can be done or should be ready to be done without any delay or hesitation. It emphasizes the need to be prepared to take action or respond quickly whenever necessary.
The word "moment" in this idiom refers to a very short amount of time, highlighting the immediacy and swiftness of the action or response required. It suggests that the situation may arise unexpectedly, and one must be ready to act with little to no prior warning.
This idiom is often used in professional or urgent contexts, emphasizing the importance of being able to respond promptly and efficiently. It conveys a sense of preparedness and readiness for any unforeseen circumstances.
One possible explanation for the origin of this idiom could be its connection to military or tactical contexts. Soldiers, for example, must always be prepared to respond to orders or commands at a moment's notice, highlighting the necessity for swift action in uncertain situations.
Another potential source of the idiom could be the world of theater and performing arts. Actors and stage crew members must be ready to perform or make changes in their performance at a moment's notice, without any prior warning or rehearsal. This reflects the sense of immediacy and adaptability conveyed by the idiom.
Overall, "at a moment's notice" embodies the notion of being prepared, alert, and ready to act promptly whenever the need arises. Its frequent use in various contexts highlights its importance in conveying a sense of urgency and the ability to respond swiftly without hesitation.
The idiom "upon the instant" is closely related to "at a moment's notice." Both idioms convey the idea of immediate action or response. "Upon the instant" suggests that something occurs at the very moment it is required, without any delay or hesitation.
In a similar vein, the idiom "at any given moment" also relates to "at a moment's notice." It signifies the potential for something to happen or be required at any specific time, further highlighting the need for preparedness and the ability to act quickly.
These related idioms further emphasize the importance of being ready to respond without delay or hesitation. They all convey the notion of swift action, emphasizing the significance of preparedness and the potential consequences of being unprepared.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "at a moment's notice" can be used in a sentence:
- She always keeps her passport ready, as she might need to travel at a moment's notice.
- The emergency response team is trained to be ready to deploy at a moment's notice.
- If you need my help, just give me a call and I'll be there at a moment's notice.
The idiom "at a moment's notice" is used to describe a situation where someone or something is prepared to take action or respond immediately when needed. It implies the ability to act without delay or with very little advance notice.
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