coup d'oeil
/'ku:'də:i/
Definition
- Noun:
- A quick look, a glance: A brief, rapid observation or survey of something.
- A comprehensive glance, a rapid overall view: A swift but encompassing look that allows one to grasp the general nature or layout of a scene.
Usage
The term coup d'oeil is used to describe the act of looking at something very quickly, often to gain an immediate impression or understanding. It implies speed and efficiency in observation. It is a formal term, often used in literary or descriptive contexts.
Examples
- The general surveyed the battlefield with a practiced coup d'oeil.
- She cast a coup d'oeil around the room to see who had arrived.
- With a single coup d'oeil, the architect assessed the building's structural issues.
Advanced Usage
- To have a coup d'oeil: To possess the skill of quickly and accurately assessing a situation.
- A good detective has a coup d'oeil for important details.
- At a coup d'oeil: Immediately apparent upon a quick look.
- The problem was visible at a coup d'oeil.
Variants and Related Words
- Coup (noun, French origin): A sudden, decisive act or strike. (Note: This is a separate word, not a variant of "coup d'oeil," but shares the same etymological root meaning "a blow" or "a stroke.")
- Glance (noun/verb): The most common direct synonym for a quick look.
- Glimpse (noun/verb): A very brief, incomplete view.
Synonyms
- Glance: A brief or hurried look.
- Glimpse: A momentary or partial view.
- Peek: A quick, often secretive look.
- Once-over (informal): A rapid inspection or examination.
Antonyms
- Stare: A long, fixed look.
- Gaze: A steady, intent look.
- Scrutiny: Close, careful observation or examination.
Notes
- Etymology: Coup d'oeil is a loan phrase from French, literally meaning "stroke of the eye."
- Usage Note: It is typically used in its original French form in English and is often italicized in writing (). It retains a sense of sophistication or specific technical skill, especially in military, artistic, or critical contexts.
Noun
-
a quick look
