Pronto: meaning, definitions and examples

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pronto

 

[ ˈprɒntoʊ ]

Adverb
Context #1 | Adverb

informal use

The word 'pronto' is often used informally to indicate that something should be done quickly or without delay. It originates from the Spanish word 'pronto', meaning 'soon' or 'quickly'. In English, it conveys a sense of urgency, often in casual conversation. It can be used to ask someone to hurry up or to describe something that will happen shortly.

Synonyms

hastily, immediately, quickly

Examples of usage

  • Get here pronto!
  • I need that report pronto.
  • Can you call me back pronto?
  • Finish your homework pronto.

Translations

Translations of the word "pronto" in other languages:

🇵🇹 готуйтеся

🇮🇳 तुरंत

🇩🇪 bereit

🇮🇩 siap

🇺🇦 готовий

🇵🇱 gotowy

🇯🇵 準備ができている

🇫🇷 prêt

🇪🇸 listo

🇹🇷 hazır

🇰🇷 준비된

🇸🇦 جاهز

🇨🇿 připravený

🇸🇰 pripravený

🇨🇳 准备好

🇸🇮 pripravljen

🇮🇸 undirbúinn

🇰🇿 дайын

🇬🇪 მზად

🇦🇿 hazır

🇲🇽 listo

Etymology

The term 'pronto' has its origins in the Spanish language, where it directly translates to 'soon' or 'quickly'. First recorded in English usage around the mid-20th century, it was adopted largely in informal contexts, embodying a laid-back yet urgent tone typical of everyday conversations. The word gained traction, especially in pop culture, influenced by phrases in media and literature that emphasized a brisk pace of life. As language evolves, 'pronto' has maintained its place in colloquial English, reflecting a blend of cultures and the tendency to incorporate useful foreign terms into English vernacular. Thus, it serves not only as a directive for haste but also as a testament to the evolving nature of language and communication styles.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #33,191 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.