To Catch a Glimpse Meaning
Definition: To see something for a brief moment.
The phrase to catch a glimpse means to see something for only a short period of time. Catch a glimpse may imply that the object or person in question will only be available to see for a short time. This may not always be the case, however. If someone catches a glimpse of an object, he or she may just look at it briefly before focusing on other things.
Ways to Use To Catch a Glimpse
This phrase is sometimes used in reference to things that can only be seen for a short time, like a shooting star, comet, or solar eclipse. It is also used to refer to anything in motion, such as someone running quickly or a police car speeding by in a chase.
If someone famous is in town, people may gather to catch a glimpse of the famous person.
Examples of To Catch a Glimpse
Most commonly, we use catch a glimpse to refer to something that can only be viewed for a short period of time. If someone catches a glimpse of someone or something, it can imply that he will not be able to see it again. However, in some cases, catching a glimpse of someone or something means simply to look briefly. When used in this context, the person or object may not be of interest to the person seeing it.
The following example conversation between two friends at a concert illustrates the correct use of this phrase.
Gina: Can we please go in to the arena now?
Lillian: If we wait by the bus, we might catch a glimpse of the band before they go on stage!
More Examples
Because most of the Earth is covered in ocean, hard-core eclipse chasers often find themselves heading to remote islands to catch a glimpse of the celestial event. –LA Times
- On Saturday, people should point their instruments to the west just after sunset to catch a glimpse of the comet, which will be just to the left of the crescent moon. –USA Today
Summary
The phrase to catch a glimpse means to see something or someone for a brief moment.
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