Promptly: meaning, definitions and examples
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promptly
[ˈprɒmptli ]
Definitions
in a timely manner
Promptly means to do something quickly or without delay. It suggests efficiency and punctuality.
Synonyms
immediately, punctually, quickly, swiftly.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| promptly |
Use this word when emphasizing the importance of acting without delay, especially in a professional or formal setting.
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| quickly |
This word is suitable for general use when something is done fast but not necessarily with the urgency implied with 'immediately'.
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| immediately |
This word is best when you need to convey a sense of urgency or when an action needs to be taken at once, no delay is acceptable.
|
| swiftly |
This word is appropriate when describing actions that are performed both fast and smoothly. It often adds a sense of efficiency.
|
| punctually |
Use 'punctually' to describe being on time for appointments, meetings, or scheduled events. It emphasizes adherence to a set time.
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Examples of usage
- She arrived promptly at the meeting.
- Please submit your assignment promptly.
in response to a request or command
Promptly also means to do something as soon as it is requested or commanded.
Synonyms
immediately, instantly, quickly, readily.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| promptly |
Promptly is best used when referring to doing something without delay, often in a professional or formal context.
|
| immediately |
Immediately is suitable when something needs to be done at once, with no delay whatsoever. It's often used in both formal and informal contexts.
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| quickly |
Quickly is used when something needs to be done in a short amount of time, but not necessarily as fast as 'immediately' or 'instantly'. It is commonly used in everyday speech.
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| readily |
Readily is used in situations where willingness or ease of doing something is emphasized. It suggests that someone is prepared to act without hesitation.
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| instantly |
Instantly implies something happening in an almost simultaneous reaction, often used in everyday conversation.
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Examples of usage
- The waiter promptly brought us our drinks.
- The report was promptly submitted to the supervisor.
Translations
Translations of the word "promptly" in other languages:
🇵🇹 prontamente
🇮🇳 तुरंत
🇩🇪 prompt
- umgehend
- schnell
🇮🇩 segera
🇺🇦 негайно
🇵🇱 szybko
🇯🇵 すぐに
🇫🇷 rapidement
🇪🇸 rápidamente
🇹🇷 hemen
🇰🇷 즉시
🇸🇦 فورًا
🇨🇿 okamžitě
🇸🇰 okamžite
🇨🇳 立刻
🇸🇮 takoj
🇮🇸 strax
🇰🇿 жедел
🇬🇪 მალევე
🇦🇿 dərhal
🇲🇽 rápidamente
Etymology
The word "promptly" originates from the Middle English word "prompt" which means ready or prepared. It has been in use since the 15th century and has evolved to represent the idea of quickness and efficiency in modern English.
See also: impromptu, prompter, prompting, promptitude, promptness, unprompted.