Swiftly: meaning, definitions and examples
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swiftly
[ˈswɪftli ]
Definitions
moving quickly
In a swift or quick manner; with speed or promptness.
Synonyms
fast, promptly, quickly, rapidly, speedily.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| swiftly |
Best used when emphasizing the smooth and efficient nature of the action, often in formal or poetic contexts.
|
| quickly |
Appropriate for everyday use when simply referring to something done in a short amount of time.
|
| rapidly |
Often used to describe processes or changes occurring in a short time, and can be slightly more formal.
|
| speedily |
More commonly used in formal contexts or older literary works; implies a sense of urgency.
|
| promptly |
Best used when emphasizing punctuality or the quick response to a request or command.
|
| fast |
This is the most generic term for describing high speed and can be used in almost any context, informal or formal.
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Examples of usage
- She ran swiftly to catch the bus.
- He completed the task swiftly and efficiently.
- The wind blew swiftly through the trees.
- The cheetah ran swiftly to catch its prey.
- We need to act swiftly to address this issue.
done with speed
Done or performed quickly or promptly.
Synonyms
fast, prompt, quick, rapid, speedy.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| swiftly |
Similar to 'swiftly' but emphasizing elegance and smoothness in rapid motion.
|
| quick |
Commonly used to describe something that takes a short amount of time or requires little effort to achieve speed.
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| rapid |
Often used to describe something that happens very fast, especially in contexts like growth or changes.
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| speedy |
Informal way to emphasize haste, often used in conversational language. Can imply efficiency along with speed.
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| prompt |
Used to describe something that is done quickly and without delay, often with a sense of urgency or efficiency.
|
| fast |
General term for high speed. Can be used in many situations, from physical speed to quickness in completing tasks.
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Examples of usage
- The team made a swift decision to move forward with the project.
- She gave a swift response to the email.
- He is known for his swift actions in times of crisis.
- The company provided swift customer service.
- The swift delivery of the package exceeded expectations.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word 'swift' comes from Old English 'swift' meaning 'quick' or 'active'.
- It has Germanic roots, linking to words in other languages that also mean fast, such as the German 'schnell'.
Language and Usage
- 'Swiftly' is often used in literature to create a sense of urgency or speed, enhancing the emotional impact of a scene.
- Common phrases include 'swiftly flowing river' or 'move swiftly', both emphasizing rapid movement.
Pop Culture
- In the world of literature, characters often 'act swiftly' to propel the story forward, particularly in thrillers and adventures.
- Film and video games frequently use the theme of 'swift action' to engage the audience and keep the tempo exciting.
Nature
- Many animals are described as swift, like the peregrine falcon, which is the fastest bird, reaching speeds over 240 mph when diving.
- Swift currents in rivers and oceans have a crucial role in ecosystems, affecting transport and migration of aquatic species.
Translations
Translations of the word "swiftly" in other languages:
🇵🇹 rapidamente
🇮🇳 शीघ्रता से
🇩🇪 schnell
🇮🇩 dengan cepat
🇺🇦 швидко
🇵🇱 szybko
🇯🇵 迅速に (じんそくに)
🇫🇷 rapidement
🇪🇸 rápidamente
🇹🇷 hızlıca
🇰🇷 빠르게
🇸🇦 بسرعة
🇨🇿 rychle
🇸🇰 rýchlo
🇨🇳 迅速地 (xùnsù de)
🇸🇮 hitro
🇮🇸 hratt
🇰🇿 жылдам
🇬🇪 სწრაფად
🇦🇿 sürətlə
🇲🇽 rápidamente