Fast: meaning, definitions and examples
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fast
[ fɑːst ]
speed
Moving or able to move quickly.
Synonyms
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.
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| quickly |
Emphasizes a short duration of time, often used when describing actions. It is common in everyday conversation and writing.
|
| rapidly |
Used in more formal or scientific contexts. Often describes processes or changes rather than physical speed.
|
| speedily |
Synonymous with 'quickly' but slightly more formal. Less commonly used in everyday language.
|
Examples of usage
- He ran fast to catch the bus.
- She typed fast on the keyboard.
- The car drove fast down the highway.
speed
Moving or able to move quickly.
Synonyms
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.
|
| quick |
Implies something happening in a short amount of time. Often used for actions or responses.
|
| rapid |
Refers to actions or processes happening quickly over time or in a sequence, often used in scientific or formal contexts.
|
| speedy |
Carries an informal or slightly exaggerated tone, usually implying promptness or swiftness.
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Examples of usage
- He is a fast runner.
- She has a fast car.
- The cheetah is one of the fastest animals.
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.
|
| quickly |
Utilized to describe the speed at which an action is performed.
|
| short period |
Refers to a small length of time and is suitable for general use.
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| brief time |
Used to describe a short duration, usually in a formal or neutral context.
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Examples of usage
- I'll be back in a fast, don't worry.
- The meeting was over in a fast.
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
Etymology
The word 'fast' originated from the Old English 'fæst', meaning firmly fixed, steadfast, secure, fortified. Over time, it evolved to also include the meaning of quick or rapid. The use of 'fast' to describe speed dates back to the 16th century, with its current adverbial form established by the 19th century. The word has maintained its dual meaning of both speed and abstinence from food for religious reasons.