fleeting look

[/ˈfliːtɪŋ lʊk/]
noun phrasepl: fleeting looks
olhar fugaz
1. A brief, quick glance or visual observation that lasts only a moment
She caught a fleeting look of sadness on his face.
Ela capturou um olhar fugaz de tristeza no rosto dele.
2. A momentary or passing glimpse of someone or something
He gave the document only a fleeting look before signing it.
Ele deu ao documento apenas um olhar fugaz antes de assiná-lo.
3. A transitory expression or appearance visible for a very short time
There was a fleeting look of confusion in her eyes.
Havia um olhar fugaz de confusão em seus olhos.
This phrase is commonly used in both American English and Brazilian Portuguese literature and everyday conversation to describe subtle emotional moments. In Brazilian culture, fleeting looks are often emphasized in romantic or dramatic contexts as a way to convey unspoken feelings. The expression is particularly frequent in descriptive writing and dialogue in both cultures.
NYC Slang
quick peep
Synonyms / Sinônimos
quick glancebrief lookpassing glancemomentary lookglimpsefleeting glance
Antonyms / Antônimos
lingering lookfixed stareprolonged gazesteady look

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
olhar fugaz
Standard term used throughout Brazil
Rio de Janeiro
olhar de relance
Alternative colloquial expression commonly used in Rio
São Paulo
olhar rápido
More informal, direct variation used in São Paulo
Portugal
vista de relance
Portuguese variant; may also use 'olhar fugidio'

Related Words

glanceglimpselookgazestaretransientephemeralmomentary

Related Idioms & Phrases

a fleeting look passes between them
steal a fleeting look
catch a fleeting look
exchange fleeting looks
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