catch a glimpse
Verb phrase: - To see something or someone for a very short period of time, often partially or without a clear view. It implies a brief, fleeting, and often accidental sighting.
This phrase is used to describe the action of seeing something momentarily. It often suggests that the observer did not have time for a full or detailed look. It is commonly used with the preposition "of."
- Verb phrase:
- I managed to catch a glimpse of the celebrity as her car sped past.
- From the train window, we caught a glimpse of the ancient castle on the hill.
- She caught a glimpse of her reflection in the store window as she walked by.
"to catch only a glimpse": Emphasizes the extreme brevity or partial nature of the sighting.
- The fog was so thick we caught only a glimpse of the lighthouse.
"to catch a fleeting glimpse": Uses a synonym ("fleeting") to reinforce the transient nature of the sight.
- He caught a fleeting glimpse of a deer before it disappeared into the forest.
Glimpse (noun): A brief, incomplete view or look.
- I got a glimpse of the report before the meeting.
Glimpse (verb): To see briefly or partially.
- I glimpsed a figure moving in the shadows.
- Spot: To see or notice something, especially briefly or with difficulty.
- Glimpse (verb): To see briefly.
- Catch sight of: To see something suddenly or briefly.
Catch sight of: Similar in meaning, often used when something is seen suddenly.
- I caught sight of an old friend in the crowd.
Get a glimpse of: A very close synonym to "catch a glimpse of."
- We were lucky to get a glimpse of the rare bird.
- A glimpse into the future: A brief insight or preview of what might happen.
- The new technology offers a glimpse into the future of transportation.
- see something for a brief time