# in a snap

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/in-a-snap
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

At once, almost immediately, very quickly or suddenly.

## Examples

- I can finish this task in a snap.
- The technician fixed the broken internet connection in a snap, so we could finish our meeting on time.
- With the deadline approaching, the experienced chef prepared the entire meal in a snap, impressing everyone with her speed and precision.

## Origin

The idiom arises from a shortening of earlier phrases such as in the snap of one's fingers. It relies upon the brevity of the manual gesture to denote an immediate duration of time.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.