Collocations for "instant"
Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word "instant" in context.
WordReference English Collocations © 2026
instant
ⓘMost examples are given in US English. We have labeled exceptions as UK.n
- the instant I said [it], I [knew, regretted, realized]
- would do [it] in an instant
- the instant anyone [says, mentions, tries]
- tell me this instant!
- will [leave, get angry] the instant he [says]
- knew it the instant she [said]
- the instant it [came, flew] (out)
- will only take an instant
- come here this instant!
- get over here this instant!
- stop that this instant!
- for an instant it [appeared, seemed] that
- [disappeared, vanished] in an instant
- coffee: a [jar, cup] of instant
- an instant [choice, decision, reaction]
- instant [cake, brownie] mix
- [give, have, get] instant access
- chat on instant messaging
- [download, install] an instant messenger
- became an instant [hit, classic, success]
- get an instant online [quote, credit rating]
- will mean instant savings
- [wanted, demanded] an instant answer
- [view, analyze] the instant replay
- instant delivery of [goods, orders]
- [justified, warranted] instant termination
- drink instant coffee
'instant' also found in these entries (note: many are not synonyms or translations):