Quickly Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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quickly
[ˈkwɪkli ]
Definitions
in a fast manner
At a high rate of speed; rapidly; swiftly.
Synonyms
promptly, rapidly, speedily, swiftly.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| quickly |
General situations requiring fast action or movement, without focusing on professionalism or immediacy.
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| rapidly |
Situations emphasizing high speed, often referring to processes, growth, or changes over a period.
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| swiftly |
Describing movement or action that is very fast and smooth, often in literary or descriptive contexts.
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| speedily |
Emphasizing efficiency and often associated with tasks or actions that need to be completed fast, sometimes in a formal context.
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| promptly |
Formal or professional settings where immediate action is required or highly valued.
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Examples of usage
- She quickly finished her homework before going out with her friends.
- He quickly ran to catch the bus before it left.
done with speed
Moving fast or doing something in a short amount of time.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| quickly |
Used to describe something done in a short amount of time. It can refer to both physical actions and changes or processes. It is neutral in tone.
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| speedy |
Suggests high speed and efficiency in completing a task. It is slightly less formal than 'rapid' and can be used in both personal and professional contexts.
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| fast |
Commonly used to describe speed. It is often associated with physical movement and performance, such as running, driving, or technology. It is neutral but can be more emphatic than 'quickly'.
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| rapid |
Describes something happening or moving very quickly, often used in more formal or technical contexts. It can refer to growth, development, or motion.
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| hasty |
Implies something done with excessive speed, often without sufficient care or thought. It carries a negative connotation.
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Examples of usage
- The quickly approaching storm forced everyone to seek shelter.
- She gave a quickly prepared speech at the event.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Research shows that humans can process visual information quickly, which is why quick actions can be crucial in emergencies.
- The concept of 'swift decision-making' studies how speed can impact judgment, often leading to quicker but sometimes less favorable outcomes.
- Feeling rushed or needing to act quickly can increase adrenaline, which is how the body prepares for immediate action.
Pop Culture
- The phrase 'Time flies when you're having fun' often accompanies fast-paced scenes in movies and shows, emphasizing moments of 'quick' joy.
- Rapid-fire dialogue is a hallmark in many comedies, making characters appear witty and fast on their feet.
- Songs frequently include the theme of living life quickly, often highlighting the fleeting nature of time.
Technology
- With the rise of the internet, the term 'quickly' has taken on new dimensions, relating to fast downloads and instant communication.
- Innovations such as high-speed internet have drastically changed how quickly we can access information from around the globe.
- In app development, user interfaces are designed for quick navigation to enhance user experience, reflecting our preference for speed.
Literature
- Writers often use quick pacing to build suspense, drawing readers into fast-moving plots.
- Classic tales like 'The Tortoise and the Hare' illustrate that speed is not always the most important aspect, merging lessons of quickness with deeper themes.
- Many poems and stories employ imagery of speed, immersing readers in feelings of urgency and excitement.
Origin of 'quickly'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Old English word 'cwic', meaning 'alive' or 'lively', showing a connection to speed and energy.
- It evolved over the centuries, retaining a sense of liveliness and swiftness as languages changed.
- The use of 'quickly' to denote speed became popular in the 14th century, reflecting the increasingly fast pace of life.
The word 'quickly' originated from the Old English word 'cwiclice', which means 'lively' or 'vigorously'. Over time, the meaning evolved to represent speed and swiftness. The adverb 'quickly' has been used in the English language for centuries to describe actions done with speed or in a fast manner.
See also: quick, quicken, quickening, quickness, quicksand.