Rapid: meaning, definitions and examples
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rapid
[ˈræpɪd ]
Definitions
fast speed
Moving, acting, or occurring with great speed. Happening in a short time or at a fast pace. Characterized by high speed.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| rapid |
Used to describe something happening very quickly, often in scientific or technical contexts.
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| quick |
Often used to describe something done in a short amount of time, focusing on the immediacy of action.
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| fast |
Commonly used to describe speed associated with movement, actions, or reactions.
|
| swift |
Typically used in more poetic or formal situations to describe something moving or happening very quickly.
|
Examples of usage
- The car accelerated at a rapid pace.
- She spoke in a rapid manner, barely pausing for breath.
- The rapid growth of technology has changed our lives.
river
A fast-flowing river. A part of a river where the current runs swiftly.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| rapid |
Used to describe something happening very quickly, often in a short amount of time.
|
| fast-flowing |
Typically used to describe water moving quickly, such as rivers or streams.
|
| swift |
Often used to describe something moving quickly with grace or efficiency; can apply to actions or physical movement.
|
| torrent |
Usually refers to a strong and fast-moving stream of water or a sudden large quantity of something, often suggesting intensity and sometimes destructive force.
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Examples of usage
- The canoeists navigated through the rapids of the river.
- The fishermen enjoyed the challenge of fishing in the rapids.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word comes from the Latin 'rapidus', which means 'seizing' or 'grasping', related to how something can quickly take hold or affect something else.
- It has been used in English since the late 14th century to describe swift movement, indicating the valor of certain actions.
- Over time, the term has evolved to apply not just to physical speed but also to processes, like rapid changes in technology or ideas.
Science
- In physics, 'rapid' often describes the quickness of an object's movement, especially in relation to forces acting on it.
- Biologically, certain animals are classified as rapid predators, reflecting their fast hunting techniques that adapt to their environments.
- In meteorology, rapid changes in weather can lead to sudden storms, emphasizing the importance of monitoring speed in environmental studies.
Pop Culture
- Movies and video games often feature plots that revolve around rapid action sequences, keeping audiences on the edge of their seats.
- The phrase 'rapid response' is frequently used in emergency services, showcasing the importance of quick action in critical situations.
- Popular music frequently references rapid emotions or quick changes in feelings, mirroring the fast-paced nature of modern life.
History
- During the Industrial Revolution, technological advancements led to rapid urbanization as people flocked to cities for work.
- The development of the internet has enabled rapid information exchange, transforming communication and business practices.
- Historical events, like wars or revolutions, often exhibit rapid shifts in power dynamics, affecting many lives within a short timeframe.
Psychology
- Research shows that rapid decision-making can sometimes lead to better outcomes, as it relies on instinct rather than overthinking.
- In cognitive psychology, rapid changes in mood or perception can signal certain mental health conditions, highlighting the human mind's adaptability.
- The concept of rapid cognition suggests that our brains can make fast evaluations based on minimal information, influencing our judgments.
Translations
Translations of the word "rapid" in other languages:
🇵🇹 rápido
🇮🇳 तेज़
🇩🇪 schnell
🇮🇩 cepat
🇺🇦 швидкий
🇵🇱 szybki
🇯🇵 迅速な (じんそくな)
🇫🇷 rapide
🇪🇸 rápido
🇹🇷 hızlı
🇰🇷 빠른
🇸🇦 سريع
🇨🇿 rychlý
🇸🇰 rýchly
🇨🇳 快速 (kuàisù)
🇸🇮 hitro
🇮🇸 hraður
🇰🇿 жылдам
🇬🇪 სწრაფი
🇦🇿 sürətli
🇲🇽 rápido