in the blink of an eye
Translations
Don't see your language? Try Google Translate
Type of Idiom?
"In the blink of an eye" is an adverbial idiom, as it functions adverbially in a sentence.
Explanation:
An adverbial idiom modifies verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs by describing how, when, or to what extent something happens.
In this case, "in the blink of an eye" answers the question "how quickly?" or "when?", thus serving an adverbial function.
Examples:
- The cat disappeared in the blink of an eye.
(modifies "disappeared" – how quickly?)
- She solved the puzzle in the blink of an eye.
(modifies "solved" – how quickly?)
- The decision was made in the blink of an eye.
(modifies "was made" – how fast?)
Definition/s
- Something happening extremely quickly or instantaneously.
- A moment so brief it’s nearly imperceptible.
Examples
- The storm passed in the blink of an eye, leaving clear skies behind.
- She finished the test in the blink of an eye, surprising everyone with her speed.
- Life can change in the blink of an eye, so cherish every moment.
What are Openers?
- Openers are conversation starters you will use to participate in a discussion. They come in three forms:
- Ask an open question and understand your conversation partners’s views.
- Make sure to ask follow ups, and remember: this is a conversation, not an interview!
- Tell a personal story. Something that has happened to you, or somebody you know.
- Or tell us about something that you have done or seen.
- Your conversation partners must then follow up with you or reciprocate with their own stories.
- Share an opinion about something that the content has inspired.
- Respectfully identify any agreement or disagreement there is in the room.
What are Openers?
- Openers are conversation starters you will use to participate in a discussion. They come in three forms:
- Ask an open question and understand your conversation partners’s views.
- Make sure to ask follow ups, and remember: this is a conversation, not an interview!
- Tell a personal story. Something that has happened to you, or somebody you know.
- Or tell us about something that you have done or seen.
- Your conversation partners must then follow up with you or reciprocate with their own stories.
- Share an opinion about something that the content has inspired.
- Respectfully identify any agreement or disagreement there is in the room.
The Skinny
You’ve been asked to brief a senior executive (the “boss”) on a key issue from a recent business news event. This person is busy and relies on you to give them insight, not headlines.
You have 60–90 seconds to deliver a concise, high-value update tailored to their concerns and communication preferences.
- Who are they?
- What do they care about?
- What do they not want to hear?
- What part of the story matters most to them?
- Don’t explain everything—prioritise.
- Be clear, precise, and professional.
- Avoid informal or emotional language.
Two Papal Styles: Clerical vs. Pastoral
Understanding the difference can help us see why Pope Francis felt so different from past leaders—and why some people loved his style while others disagreed with it.
- Focuses on rules, tradition, and Church authority
- Speaks with clear, firm direction
- Keeps strong boundaries between Church leaders and members.
Example: A clerical pope might defend strict Church teachings on family or sacraments.
- Focuses on compassion, listening, and inclusion
- Tries to meet people where they are.
- Emphasises mercy over judgment.
Example: A pastoral pope might welcome divorced people or support migrants and the poor.
