Word

glance

noun C1

UK /ɡlɑːns/

US /ɡlæns/

Meanings

noun

a quick look that lasts only a short moment

verb

to look quickly or briefly at someone or something

verb

to hit or touch something lightly and then move away at an angle

Definition

A glance is a quick look at someone or something.

A glance is a brief, rapid look, often lasting only a moment. People take a glance to check something, notice a detail, or show interest without staring. As a verb, it means to look quickly or briefly, sometimes without turning your head fully.

Examples

I took a glance at the agenda and realized we had missed a key item.
She glanced at the departing train and then quickened her pace toward the platform.
They exchanged a glance that made it clear they had already agreed on the plan.
He gave the report a quick glance, but he still asked for a deeper analysis afterward.
You can tell at a glance whether the photo is in focus by checking the details around the eyes.

Common mistake

Learners often confuse "glance" (quick look) with "stare" (long, fixed look) and use the wrong verb for the situation.