Prompt
PROMPT
/prɒmpt/
Done without delay; punctual; or to cause someone to take action or reply.
As an adjective in email etiquette, 'prompt' commends quick, courteous responsiveness.
The story behind the word. Latin promptus meant 'brought out to light' or 'handy, ready for use'. An actor who had lines 'brought forward' to memory was prompted. In modern work, a prompt email reply shows your attention is ready and right at hand.
Word relationships
- punctual: 'Punctual' means arriving exactly on time for an event, while 'prompt' means acting quickly without delay.
- swift: 'Swift' describes fast movement in general, while 'prompt' specifically highlights ready and immediate response.
- tardy: 'Tardy' means late or delayed, the direct opposite of prompt.
- sluggish: 'Sluggish' means slow to respond or act.
Commonly confused with
- propel: 'Propel' means to drive forward physically, whereas 'prompt' means to induce action or act quickly.
Word family
- promptly (adverb): Without delay; quickly and punctually.
- promptness (noun): The quality of being ready and quick to respond.
Collocations
- prompt reply
- prompt attention
- prompt service
- prompt response
Example sentences
- "Thank you for your prompt response to our inquiry regarding the project deadline." Expressing appreciation in business
- "The urgent notice was designed to prompt recipients to update their security passwords immediately." Action requirement
Memory hook
PROMPT action happens RIGHT ON THE SPOT. Ready and quick to act.
When not to use
Do not use 'prompt' to describe slow, methodical processes that intentionally take time.
Fun facts
- In computing, a 'command prompt' gets its name from the idea that the system is standing ready, waiting to be prompted by user commands.
Related words
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