Hastily: Definition and Synonyms
hastily – Definition and Part of Speech
The word “hastily” is an adverb that describes an action performed with excessive speed or urgency, often implying carelessness or a lack of thoroughness. It suggests that something is done quickly because time is limited or due to pressure.
Core Synonyms (Table Format)
| Synonym | Brief Definition/Nuance | Example Sentence | Style/Register |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quickly | Emphasizes speed; can be neutral or positive. | “She quickly finished her report before the deadline.” | Informal/Formal, General |
| Rapidly | Suggests fast pace in a more technical context. | “The response to the crisis was organized rapidly.” | Formal/Academic |
| Speedily | Often used in formal or literary contexts. | “They speedily implemented the new procedures.” | Formal/Literary |
| Abruptly | Implies suddenness and can suggest unexpected action. | “He abruptly ended the meeting without a warning.” | Informal/Formal, Literary |
| Precipitately | Strongly suggests recklessness or urgency. | “She precipitately left the room at the news of his arrival.” | Formal/Archaic |
Usage Notes
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Quickly: This synonym is versatile and commonly used across various contexts—from casual conversations to formal reports. It’s neutral in tone, making it suitable for both written and spoken English.
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Rapidly: Best suited for academic or technical writing, “rapidly” conveys a sense of fast development or action within a scientific or procedural context. It often appears in discussions related to processes or changes over time.
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Speedily: With its slightly formal tone, “speedily” fits well into business communications and literary works where elegance is desired. It may be used to describe prompt service or efficient execution of tasks.
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Abruptly: This word adds a layer of unexpectedness or sudden change to actions. In storytelling or dramatic narratives, it helps convey surprise or interruption. It’s also useful in describing shifts in dialogue or events.
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Precipitately: Often found in more formal or older literature, “precipitately” underscores hasty action with negative connotations such as recklessness or lack of consideration. It’s less commonly used in everyday language but can add a dramatic flair when appropriate.
Common Pitfalls
One common pitfall is confusing “hastily” with synonyms like “quickly,” which may not always carry the same implication of carelessness or urgency. Additionally, while “precipitately” and “abruptly” share some overlap in meaning, they aren’t interchangeable as “precipitately” often suggests more recklessness.
Final Recap
The key synonyms for “hastily” include quickly, rapidly, speedily, abruptly, and precipitately. Each carries its own nuances:
- Quickly: Neutral emphasis on speed.
- Rapidly: Technical or academic context.
- Speedily: Formal or literary use with a positive connotation.
- Abruptly: Suddenness, often unexpected.
- Precipitately: Strong sense of urgency and potential recklessness.
To enhance your vocabulary, practice using these synonyms in various sentences. Try incorporating them into different contexts—business emails, academic essays, or casual conversations—to understand their subtle distinctions better. This exercise will help solidify your grasp of the nuances each synonym offers.