Hurrying: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when someone needs to move quickly because of limited time or urgency.

• She was hurrying to catch the bus
• They are hurrying to finish the project before the deadline

Implies a sense of urgency and often lack of preparation; it can have a negative connotation if overused.

• He had to rush to get to the meeting on time
• Don't rush your decisions; take your time to think

A more formal or literary word used when emphasizing swiftness, often in written or spoken contexts that are more descriptive.

• She hastened to add that she didn't mean to offend anyone
• The government is hastening its efforts to combat the crisis

Applied in situations where speed needs to increase, often used in scientific, technical, or formal contexts.

• The car began to accelerate on the highway
• We need to accelerate the development process to meet our goals

Commonly used in everyday speech to indicate the need for increased speed in doing something.

• Can you speed up the process? We need to speed up if we want to catch the last train

Generally used to describe someone moving or acting with great speed, often when they are late or need to complete something quickly.

• She was hurrying to catch the last bus
• He didn't have time to chat because he was hurrying to finish his report

Describes a situation where everything is done very quickly, often because of limited time. It’s versatile and can describe both actions and feelings of urgency.

• There was a rush to get out of the building during the fire drill
• Don’t rush your homework

Refers to quickness or speed, often suggesting a lack of careful thought or planning. It can have a slightly negative connotation.

• In her haste to leave, she forgot her keys
• Haste makes waste

Describes a situation or feeling that requires immediate attention, highlighting the importance and seriousness of the matter.

• The doctor spoke with a sense of urgency
• There’s an urgency to address climate change

Implies energetic or determined effort, often in a lively or busy environment. It can sometimes have a positive connotation implying hard work and determination.

• You need to hustle if you want to catch the train
• The team hustled to prepare for the big event