split-second 1 of 2

Definition of split-secondnext
as in instantaneous
done or occurring without any noticeable lapse in time a day trader who is used to making split-second decisions

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

split second

2 of 2

noun

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of split-second
Adjective
Adelman adamantly defended Jokic’s split-second decision, which was scrutinized even by the first-year coach’s friends. Bennett Durando, Denver Post, 12 Apr. 2026 Law enforcement officers are often forced to make split-second decisions in uncertain circumstances. Jim Cook, Baltimore Sun, 9 Apr. 2026
Noun
In that split second Mara peeled to his right, curling around Avila for the easy lay in. Dana O’Neil, CNN Money, 21 Mar. 2026 Leo consistently overcomes challenges such as low light, rapid movement, and split second moments to produce sharp, compelling images. Heide Janssen, Oc Register, 15 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for split-second
Recent Examples of Synonyms for split-second
Adjective
  • One is instantaneous, the brain just flips into unrecognizable thoughts, and the other is a deterioration over time.
    Tony Maglio, HollywoodReporter, 21 Apr. 2026
  • By all accounts, virality is violent for its subjects, and building a sustainable career from sudden celebrity is a formidable task; any sensible person would be wise to distrust such an instantaneous anointing.
    Amanda Petrusich, New Yorker, 13 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • Without him, Heiskanen and Harley had to log even heavier minutes in an already long and grueling game.
    Mark Lazerus, New York Times, 27 Apr. 2026
  • Catastrophic wildfires are not new for Chile, but this year’s stand out for how fast the flames spread, devouring an average of nearly 25 acres every minute.
    Stefano Pozzebon, CNN Money, 26 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • Not everything needs an immediate answer.
    Tarot.com, New York Daily News, 22 Apr. 2026
  • There was no immediate word on the identities of the perpetrator or the identify of the person who died.
    Foreign Correspondent, Los Angeles Times, 21 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • In a matter of seconds, Kremer went from a possible 0-2 count to 2-1.
    Zack Meisel, New York Times, 27 Apr. 2026
  • The first satellite launched in 2023, also on a Falcon Heavy, and entered service in 2024 while the second that launched on a United Launch Alliance Atlas V last November remains in testing.
    Richard Tribou, The Orlando Sentinel, 26 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • Krauchun continued her instant impact Monday for Andrew in a 14-1 SouthWest Suburban Conference victory in five innings over visiting Stagg in Tinley Park.
    Tony Baranek, Chicago Tribune, 21 Apr. 2026
  • Metallic boots infuse some instant shine and glamour into an otherwise simple outfit, while a silver bag and gold jewelry ties everything together.
    Abby Morgan Lebet, Glamour, 20 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • By tapping into the brand’s deep connection to celebrity culture, the game transforms familiar faces and trending moments into interactive entertainment.
    Rachel Jacoby Zoldan, PEOPLE, 21 Apr. 2026
  • After Hawks center Tony Bradley was called for an offensive foul for setting a hard screen on Alvarado, the veteran McCollum got into it with the scrappy Knicks guard, jawing face-to-face in a moment that underscored the growing chippiness in the series.
    Peter Sblendorio, New York Daily News, 21 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • His heart can beat rapidly or stop completely, and his chest can rise and fall in accordance with his heartbeat.
    Ciara McCarthy, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 24 Apr. 2026
  • Just to get my heartbeat (up) and get on the treadmill, do a bit of running and weights.
    Kim Willis, USA Today, 23 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Split-second.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/split-second. Accessed 27 Apr. 2026.

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