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Shortcuts: meaning, definitions and examples

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shortcuts

 

[ ˈʃɔːrtkʌts ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

computer usage

Shortcuts are quick ways to perform tasks by using a combination of keys or mouse clicks instead of navigating through menus.

Synonyms

hotkeys, key combinations, quick keys.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
shortcuts

Used to refer to a method that saves time or effort in performing tasks, often implying efficiency. This can be in computing, daily activities, or more conceptual things.

  • He uses keyboard shortcuts to speed up his workflow.
  • She found a shortcut to quickly open her favorite app.
quick keys

Informal term that generally refers to the same concept as hotkeys or keyboard shortcuts. It may be used in casual contexts, particularly when explaining to non-technical users.

  • Use the quick keys to open your email faster.
  • She taught her grandmother some quick keys to make internet browsing easier.
hotkeys

Specifically used in computing to describe keys or key combinations that execute specific commands or functions in software, frequently used by advanced users and gamers.

  • Press the hotkey F5 to refresh the page.
  • Gamers often customize hotkeys for quick access to abilities.
key combinations

Used to describe combinations of two or more keys pressed simultaneously to perform a particular function within a software application or operating system.

  • Ctrl+C is a key combination for copying text.
  • Many key combinations are standardized across different programs.

Examples of usage

  • You can use shortcuts like Ctrl + C to copy text instead of going to the Edit menu.
  • Learning keyboard shortcuts can greatly increase your productivity.
  • Shortcuts are especially useful for power users who want to speed up their workflow.

Translations

Translations of the word "shortcuts" in other languages:

🇵🇹 atalhos

🇮🇳 शॉर्टकट्स

🇩🇪 Abkürzungen

🇮🇩 jalan pintas

🇺🇦 ярлики

🇵🇱 skróty

🇯🇵 ショートカット

🇫🇷 raccourcis

🇪🇸 atajos

🇹🇷 kısayollar

🇰🇷 단축키

🇸🇦 اختصارات

🇨🇿 zkratky

🇸🇰 skratky

🇨🇳 快捷键

🇸🇮 bližnjice

🇮🇸 flýtileiðir

🇰🇿 қысқартулар

🇬🇪 მოკლე გზები

🇦🇿 qısayollar

🇲🇽 atajos

Etymology

The term 'shortcuts' originated in the computing world to describe a quicker way of performing tasks by using key combinations or mouse clicks. As computer technology advanced, shortcuts became an essential part of user experience, enabling faster and more efficient interaction with software applications.

See also: short, shortage, shortbread, shortcomings, shortcut, shorten, shortened, shortening, shortenings, shortfall, shortly, shortness, shortsighted.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,899, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.