What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
momentarily
Example
The flight will be departing momentarily. [momentarily: adverb]
Example
I'll be right back, just stepping out momentarily. [momentarily: adverb]
briefly
Example
He spoke briefly about his experience at the conference. [briefly: adverb]
Example
I looked over the report briefly before the meeting. [briefly: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Briefly is more commonly used than momentarily in everyday language. Briefly is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while momentarily is less common and is typically used in more formal contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between momentarily and briefly?
Momentarily is typically associated with a more formal tone, while briefly is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
