for the moment
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Adverb - Temporarily; for now: Used to indicate that something is happening or is true only for a limited, short period, with the understanding that it may change later.
Usage
The phrase "for the moment" is used to describe a temporary state or action. It emphasizes the present situation while acknowledging its likely impermanence. It is often used in spoken and written English to qualify a statement.
Examples
- Adverb:
- Let's leave the decision open for the moment. (We will not decide finally now, but we might later.)
- The system is stable for the moment, but we need a long-term solution. (It is stable now, but this may not last.)
- I'm satisfied with the arrangement for the moment. (My satisfaction is current and may change.)
Advanced Usage
- "For the moment, at least": Adds emphasis to the temporary nature, often implying some doubt or reservation.
- The crisis is over, for the moment, at least.
- Used to pause or delay a final judgment or action.
- We'll assume the plan is correct for the moment and proceed.
Variants and Related Words
- For the time being: A very close synonym with identical meaning and usage.
- Use this method for the time being.
- For now: A more casual synonym.
- That's enough for now.
- Temporarily: A more formal, single-word synonym.
- The road is temporarily closed.
Synonyms
- For the present
- For now
- For the time being
- Temporarily
- Pro tem (formal, often used in official contexts)
Related Phrases
- At the moment: This phrase means "right now" or "at the present time" but does not inherently carry the meaning of temporary limitation. It simply describes the current state.
- I'm busy at the moment. (This describes my current status, not necessarily that it will change soon.)
- For a moment: This means "for a very short period of time," often just a few seconds or minutes.
- Can I speak to you for a moment?
Adverb
- temporarily
- we'll stop for the time being