"for a moment" vs "for the moment"

Question

"for a moment" vs "for the moment"

Both phrases are correct, but they have different meanings and usage. 'For the moment' is used to indicate a temporary situation or a current state, while 'for a moment' is used to refer to a short period of time. They are not interchangeable.

Last Updated: March 20, 2024

This phrase is used to indicate a brief duration of time, often implying a short pause or interruption in an activity.

Examples:

I stopped for a moment to catch my breath.
For a moment, I thought I had lost my keys.
She hesitated for a moment before answering the question.

Alternatives:

briefly
momentarily
for a short time
temporarily
for a brief period

This phrase is used to refer to a situation that is true or relevant at the present time, but may change in the future. It implies a sense of temporary or provisional status.

Examples:

For the moment, let's focus on the task at hand.
I can't make any promises for the moment, but I'll do my best to help.
For the moment, the project is on hold until we receive further instructions.

Alternatives:

at the moment
currently
temporarily
for now
presently

Answer 1

for a moment

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to refer to a short period of time.

Answer 2

for the moment

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to indicate a temporary situation or a current state.

"for a moment" vs "for the moment"

for a moment

for the moment

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