split second
[/splɪt ˈsɛkənd/]
nounpl: split seconds
fração de segundo
1. An extremely brief moment of time; an instant
In a split second, the car swerved to avoid the pedestrian.
Em uma fração de segundo, o carro desviou para evitar o pedestre.
2. A moment too brief to measure accurately; a flash
The decision was made in a split second.
A decisão foi tomada em um piscar de olhos.
This expression is widely used in both American English and Brazilian Portuguese to convey urgency and the brevity of a moment. In Brazilian culture, the equivalent 'fração de segundo' or the more idiomatic 'num piscar de olhos' (in the blink of an eye) are commonly used in both formal and casual contexts. The phrase is particularly common in sports commentary, emergency situations, and describing reflexive reactions.
NYC Slang
in a hot minute; in a sec; in a tick
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