Fast: meaning, definitions and examples

⚡️

Add to dictionary

fast

[fɑːst ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adverb}

speed

Moving or able to move quickly.

Synonyms

quickly, rapidly, speedily.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
fast	Describes both speed and firmness; common in both casual and formal speech. Can refer to physical speed or an action being done quickly. The car is very fast. She ran fast to catch the bus.
quickly	Emphasizes a short duration of time, often used when describing actions. It is common in everyday conversation and writing. He quickly finished his homework. She quickly ran out of the room.
rapidly	Used in more formal or scientific contexts. Often describes processes or changes rather than physical speed. Technology is advancing rapidly. The disease spread rapidly through the town.
speedily	Synonymous with 'quickly' but slightly more formal. Less commonly used in everyday language. The committee speedily resolved the issue. Please respond speedily to avoid delays.

Examples of usage

He ran fast to catch the bus.
She typed fast on the keyboard.
The car drove fast down the highway.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

speed

Moving or able to move quickly.

Synonyms

quick, rapid, speedy.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
fast	Describes something or someone moving or capable of moving at a high speed. Often used for physical speed or performance. He runs very fast The car is incredibly fast
quick	Implies something happening in a short amount of time. Often used for actions or responses. She gave a quick answer I need a quick fix
rapid	Refers to actions or processes happening quickly over time or in a sequence, often used in scientific or formal contexts. The patient's recovery was rapid There was rapid growth in the economy
speedy	Carries an informal or slightly exaggerated tone, usually implying promptness or swiftness. We need a speedy resolution She's a speedy typist

Examples of usage

He is a fast runner.
She has a fast car.
The cheetah is one of the fastest animals.

^{Context #3 | Noun}

time

A period of time when something happens quickly or in a short time.

Synonyms

brief time, quickly, short period.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
fast	Appropriate when describing quick speed or rapid action. Commonly used for physical speed. The car is very fast He ran fast to catch the bus
quickly	Utilized to describe the speed at which an action is performed. He quickly finished his homework She responded quickly to the email
short period	Refers to a small length of time and is suitable for general use. I'll be back in a short period The project was completed in a short period
brief time	Used to describe a short duration, usually in a formal or neutral context. We only have a brief time before the meeting starts She solved the problem in a brief time

Examples of usage

I'll be back in a fast, don't worry.
The meeting was over in a fast.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'fast' comes from the Old English word 'fǣst,' meaning firmly or solidly.
In Middle English, 'fast' also started to mean quick or speedy, evolving its modern usage.
Interestingly, 'fast' has a different meaning in some contexts, like in 'to fast' meaning to refrain from eating.
The term has been around for over a thousand years, showing its importance in the English language.

Science

In physics, speed is the rate of movement, which relates to how we understand 'fast' in measurements, like miles per hour.
Certain animals, like the peregrine falcon and the Brazilian free-tailed bat, are known for their incredible speed, showcasing nature's adaptation.
Research in sport science looks at the biomechanics of movement to understand and improve how 'fast' athletes can perform.
Speed is a crucial factor in many scientific experiments, influencing outcomes in fields like chemistry and physics.

Culture

'Fast' is often celebrated in sports, with records being set for the fastest times in races, swimming, and more.
The phrase 'fast food' refers to meals that can be prepared and served quickly, reflecting a cultural trend towards convenience.
In music, the term 'fast tempo' suggests a lively beat, enhancing the energy of a song and encouraging dancing.
Various cultures have speed-centered celebrations, such as marathons and racing events, highlighting human endurance and competition.

Psychology

Our perception of time influences how we experience 'fast' – moments can feel quicker when we are busy or enjoying ourselves.
Cognitive studies show that people often perceive time as moving faster as they age due to fewer new experiences.
Some research suggests that rapid information delivery can enhance learning, as our brains adapt to process 'fast' input.
Mindfulness practices can help slow down our perception of time, offering a contrast to the hustle of a 'fast' lifestyle.

Literature

Many literary works explore the idea of speed, using phrases like 'life in the fast lane' to depict a thrilling lifestyle.
Some poems and stories experiment with narrative pacing, contrasting fast-moving plots with slower, reflective moments.
Authors often use 'fast' language to create excitement and urgency in thrilling scenes, pulling readers into action.
Famous quotes about 'fast' include 'Time flies' and 'The faster you go, the slower you get there,' emphasizing the paradox of speed.

Translations

Translations of the word "fast" in other languages:

🇵🇹 rápido

🇮🇳 तेज़

🇩🇪 schnell

🇮🇩 cepat

🇺🇦 швидкий

🇵🇱 szybki

🇯🇵 速い (はやい, hayai)

🇫🇷 rapide

🇪🇸 rápido

🇹🇷 hızlı

🇰🇷 빠른 (ppareun)

🇸🇦 سريع

🇨🇿 rychlý

🇸🇰 rýchly

🇨🇳 快 (kuài)

🇸🇮 hitro

🇮🇸 fljótur

🇰🇿 жылдам

🇬🇪 სწრაფი (stsrapi)

🇦🇿 sürətli

🇲🇽 rápido

Word Frequency Rank

This word ranks #1,508, placing it within important intermediate vocabulary. Learning it will significantly improve your ability to express yourself in English.

...
1505 attached
1506 elected
1507 boys
1508 fast
1509 express
1510 assets
1511 budget
...