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Punctuality: meaning, definitions and examples

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punctuality

 

[ ˌpʌŋktʃuˈæləti ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

importance of being on time

Punctuality is the characteristic of being able to complete a required task or fulfil an obligation before or at a previously designated time. It is a trait highly valued in various cultures and societies as it demonstrates reliability, professionalism, and respect for others' time. Punctuality is often seen as a sign of discipline and organization.

Synonyms

promptness, regularity, timeliness.

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Word Description / Examples
punctuality

Used when emphasizing the importance of being on time for meetings, appointments, or events. It highlights the precision and reliability of a person or system.

  • Her punctuality in attending classes earned her the admiration of her teachers.
  • The train service is known for its punctuality.
promptness

Often utilized when stressing the speed or quickness of action or response, particularly in services or communications. It does not only imply being on time but also acting swiftly.

  • The promptness of the emergency response team saved many lives.
  • I appreciate your promptness in replying to my email.
timeliness

Used to highlight the appropriateness or suitability of a particular time for an action. It is often related to the favorable timing of events, not just being on time.

  • The timeliness of the project completion was crucial for the company’s success.
  • Your timeliness in delivering the speech was impeccable.
regularity

Refers to the consistency and predictability of occurrences or actions happening at fixed intervals. It is more about the regular schedule or pattern rather than just being on time.

  • The regularity of his monthly reports impressed his boss.
  • She enjoys the regularity of her weekly yoga classes.

Examples of usage

  • Punctuality is key in the business world, where being late for a meeting can have serious consequences.
  • Her punctuality at work earned her the reputation of a dependable employee.
  • Schools emphasize the importance of punctuality to instill good habits in students.
  • His lack of punctuality often caused disruptions in the schedule.
  • Being punctual shows respect for others and their time.

Translations

Translations of the word "punctuality" in other languages:

🇵🇹 pontualidade

🇮🇳 समय की पाबंदी

🇩🇪 Pünktlichkeit

🇮🇩 ketepatan waktu

🇺🇦 пунктуальність

🇵🇱 punktualność

🇯🇵 時間厳守 (じかんげんしゅ)

🇫🇷 ponctualité

🇪🇸 puntualidad

🇹🇷 dakiklik

🇰🇷 시간 엄수 (시간 엄수)

🇸🇦 الالتزام بالمواعيد

🇨🇿 dochvilnost

🇸🇰 dochvíľnosť

🇨🇳 准时 (zhǔnshí)

🇸🇮 točnost

🇮🇸 stundvísi

🇰🇿 уақтылылық

🇬🇪 პუნქტუალობა

🇦🇿 dəqiqlik

🇲🇽 puntualidad

Etymology

The word 'punctuality' originated from the Latin word 'punctualis', meaning 'pertaining to a point'. It first appeared in the English language in the mid-17th century. The concept of punctuality has been valued throughout history, with ancient civilizations emphasizing the importance of timeliness in various aspects of life. Today, punctuality remains a desirable trait in professional, social, and personal settings.

See also: punctiliousness, punctually, unpunctuality.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,222, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.