Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Punctual Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

⏰
Add to dictionary

punctual

[ˈpʌŋ(k)tjʊəl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

being on time

Punctual means being on time, arriving or doing something at the agreed or proper time. It reflects a person's ability to be prompt and meet deadlines.

Synonyms

on time, prompt, timely.

Examples of usage

  • He is very punctual and always arrives at work on time.
  • It is important to be punctual for meetings to show respect for others' time.
Context #2 | Adjective

related to timekeeping

Punctual can also refer to something that is done or scheduled according to the clock. It implies precision and accuracy in time management.

Synonyms

prompt, scheduled, timely.

Examples of usage

  • The punctual arrival of the train is crucial for the commuters.
  • Her punctual submission of assignments impressed the professor.
Context #3 | Adjective

habitually doing things promptly

Being punctual can also describe a person who has the habit of doing things promptly and efficiently, without delay or procrastination.

Synonyms

efficient, prompt, timely.

Examples of usage

  • She is known for her punctual responses to emails.
  • The company values punctual employees who deliver results on time.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, being punctual is considered a sign of respect and professionalism.
  • Countries like Germany and Japan emphasize punctuality, impacting business and social interactions significantly.
  • Conversely, in some cultures, being slightly late is socially acceptable, reflecting different values in time management.

Psychology

  • Being punctual is often linked to better self-discipline and time management skills.
  • Studies show that punctual people generally experience less stress than those who frequently run late.
  • Time perspective, how people view time, affects punctuality, with some viewing it as a flexible concept.

Literature

  • Punctuality is often portrayed as a virtue in many literary works, symbolizing reliability.
  • In works like 'The Importance of Being Earnest', punctuality plays a comedic role, highlighting societal expectations.
  • Authors have used characters’ punctuality or lack thereof to symbolize their traits, such as responsibility or carelessness.

Science

  • Studies in chronobiology examine how timing and circadian rhythms affect human behavior, including punctuality.
  • Research shows that being on time is linked to brain function, as some people might have a better 'time sense' than others.
  • The concept of timekeeping evolved with science, from sundials to atomic clocks, enhancing societies' ability to be punctual.

Origin of 'punctual'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'punctualis,' which means 'relating to a point in time.'
  • In the 16th century, it began to be used in English to describe being precise with time.
  • It reflects the idea of being exact, like a dot on a page, showing how important every minute can be.

The word 'punctual' originated from the Latin word 'punctualis', which means 'pertaining to a point'. It first appeared in the English language in the late 17th century. The concept of punctuality has been valued throughout history, with various cultures emphasizing the importance of being on time as a sign of respect and responsibility.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,189, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.