What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
fleeting
Example
The butterfly's visit was fleeting, and it flew away before I could take a picture. [fleeting: adjective]
Example
I caught a fleeting glimpse of the sunset before the clouds covered it up. [fleeting: noun]
transient
Example
The transient nature of life reminds us to cherish every moment. [transient: adjective]
Example
The hotel is popular among transients who are passing through the city. [transients: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Transient is more commonly used than fleeting in everyday language. Transient is a versatile word that can be used in many contexts, while fleeting is less common and more specific to describing brief moments or experiences.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between fleeting and transient?
Both fleeting and transient are relatively formal words that are appropriate for use in academic or professional writing. However, transient may be slightly more formal due to its Latin origin and broader range of meanings.
