glance
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /ɡlæns/
KK: /ɡlæns/
intransitive verb
Definition
To look quickly or briefly at something.
Example
She took a glance at her watch before leaving the house.
Tense Forms
Past: glanced
Past Participle: glanced
Conversation
Did you glance at the new cafe that opened down the street?
Yeah, I saw it when I was walking by yesterday.
I think we should check it out this weekend.
Sounds good! I’ll make sure to glance at their menu online first.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
peek
glimpse
flash
Antonyms
stare
gaze
ignore
noun
Definition
A quick look at something without focusing on it for long.
Example
She took a glance at her watch to check the time.
Conversation
Did you see that new painting in the gallery?
Yeah, I gave it a quick glance yesterday.
What did you think of it after your glance?
transitive verb
Definition
To make something hit a surface at an angle, often causing it to bounce away.
Example
He glanced the ball off the wall to change its direction.
Tense Forms
Past: glanced
Past Participle: glanced
Conversation
Did you see how he glanced that rock off the wall?
Yeah, it was impressive! I didn't think he could do that.
I know, right? It looked like he really practiced how to glance it just right.
Root Explanation
Glance originates from Middle English 'glancen', which is derived from the Old Norse 'glansa', meaning to shine or glimmer. The word reflects the action of quickly shining one's eyes over something.
Memory Tip
Think of quickly 'shining' your eyes over something — that's what it means to glance.
Visually Confused Words
aglance
lance
glace
launce
lancet
lances
lancer
lanced