Rapidly Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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rapidly
[ˈræp.ɪd.li ]
Definitions
in time
At a fast speed; quickly.
Synonyms
promptly, quickly, speedily, swiftly.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| rapidly |
This word is appropriate when describing something happening at a great rate, particularly in scientific or technical settings.
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| quickly |
This is a more general term for something happening in a short amount of time, suitable for everyday use.
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| swiftly |
Suitable for describing smooth and efficient actions, often in literary or descriptive writing.
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| speedily |
This word is less common and has an old-fashioned or formal tone, used to describe swift actions.
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| promptly |
This is best used when referring to actions done without any delay or right on time, often used in professional or formal contexts.
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Examples of usage
- He spoke rapidly, barely pausing for breath.
- The car accelerated rapidly down the highway.
- Time is passing rapidly, we need to hurry up.
in development
Happening in a short time or at a fast pace.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| rapidly |
Suitable for formal and scientific contexts when describing something that occurs at a high speed within a relatively short time frame.
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| quick |
Used to describe something that takes a short amount of time or someone who performs actions with speed.
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| fast |
Commonly used in informal communication to describe something that moves or happens with high speed.
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| swift |
More poetic or literary, often used to convey smoothness and grace in motion or action.
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| speedy |
Suitable for informal contexts and often used to describe service, actions, or changes done quickly and efficiently.
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Examples of usage
- The company has seen a rapidly increasing number of customers.
- The population of the city is growing rapidly.
- Technological advancements are taking place rapidly.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Science
- In physics, the term describes motion, where higher speed means a shorter time to travel a specific distance.
- Rapid temperature changes can influence weather patterns, leading to sudden storms or shifts in climate.
- In biology, certain processes like nerve conduction and heartbeats can happen rapidly, crucial for survival and responses.
Technology
- Rapid advancements in technology mean that new devices and software are released quickly, influencing our daily lives.
- In the field of software development, rapid application development focuses on quickly producing functional prototypes.
- The internet allows for rapid communication, enabling information to be shared instantly across the globe.
Psychology
- People can experience rapid changes in mood or perception in response to stimuli or life events, affecting mental health.
- The concept of rapid cognition suggests we can make judgments quickly, often within seconds, showcasing our brain's efficiency.
- In stress situations, the body's fight-or-flight response occurs rapidly, preparing us for instinctive actions.
Pop Culture
- The phrase 'the rapid rise of social media' highlights how quickly platforms like TikTok and Instagram gained popularity.
- In movies, 'rapid-fire dialogue' can create a sense of urgency and excitement, drawing viewers deeper into the story.
- Musical genres like fast-paced punk rock or electronic create a 'rapid' rhythm that energizes listeners.
Origin of 'rapidly'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'rapid' comes from the Latin 'rapidus', meaning 'seizing' or 'carrying away', capturing the idea of quickness.
- In the early 15th century, 'rapid' was primarily used to describe running water, showing how speed can be fluid.
- The suffix 'ly' turns adjectives into adverbs, so 'rapid' becomes 'rapidly', indicating the manner in which something occurs.
The word 'rapidly' originates from the Latin word 'rapidus', meaning swift or quick. Over time, it has evolved to represent speed and quickness in various contexts. The adverb 'rapidly' is commonly used in everyday language to describe actions or processes that occur swiftly or without delay.