In a heartbeat means instantly, without hesitating: I'd accept that invitation in a heartbeat. With would, it becomes a confession of how much you want something or how ready you are: if they needed help, she would be there in a heartbeat. It can also describe a sudden change: the mood changed in a heartbeat.
When would you say in a heartbeat?
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would do something in a heartbeat; happen in a heartbeat
- I'd accept that invitation in a heartbeat.
- If they needed help, she would be there in a heartbeat.
- The quiet mood changed in a heartbeat when the music started.
What changed
First versionI'd return to that island at a heartbeat.
RevisionI'd return to that island in a heartbeat.
At is common for moments, as in at that moment, so at a heartbeat seems logical. But the idiom uses in: in a heartbeat, like in a second and in a flash.
Immediately is only about time. In a heartbeat also shows you wouldn't hesitate for a moment. Without hesitation means the same but sounds more neutral, so it suits writing.
Your turn
You would accept an offer without hesitation: I'd say yes ___ a heartbeat.
Show the answer
in — The idiom is in a heartbeat: you'd say yes without thinking. On doesn't form it.
Name an offer you would accept immediately, using would and in a heartbeat.
I'd join another weekend workshop with that teacher in a heartbeat.
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