asap

USAGE SUMMARY

"asap" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to mean "as soon as possible" or to refer to something happening right away. Example sentence: "I need this report asap."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Facebook Twitter Google plus Share Share this post Facebook Twitter Google plus close 11.20pm BST23 20 If you haven't seen the New York Times interactive graphic illustrating how states have shifted in their partisan orientations in the last 60 years, you'll want to check it out ASAP.

The Guardian

The ECB may yet expand its balance sheet (indeed last week's cover story argued that it should do so ASAP) and the Bank of Japan is still being supportive.

The Economist

Introduce yourself to artists as a serious figure in economics who wants to branch out to graphic novels – and show them your portfolio ASAP to distinguish yourself from all the wannabees.

The Economist

In the early 21st century the AP began focusing on various reader initiatives including an online blog; asap, a multimedia news service targeting younger subscribers and members; citizen journalism; and the Mobile News Network for mobile phone users.

Encyclopedia Britannica

For those Anderson groupies with tickets to the first week or so of Secret Cinema shows, this is - if nothing else - an expensive way to see a much-anticipated movie ASAP.

Independent

We haven't even gotten to the screamy bit of the song and the gig is fucking OVER?" So, I asked for a microphone and told the audience I'd get fixed up and come right back to finish the show ASAP.

Independent

I decided to fly back to London and find a doctor that could see me ASAP.

Independent

Let's get T-shirts made up, asap.

Independent

However, it might already be too late according to many Liverpool fans who slated Benteke's performance last night... Benteke linked up okay, but we need to sell asap.

Independent

Would I be tempted to sign onto a masters course asap or dismiss student life as hopelessly juvenile?

Independent

Or, in short, DiCaprio thinks he's nailed the Russian accent and he's really keen to get it out there ASAP.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "asap" in written communication, consider your audience and the overall tone. While it's widely understood, more formal settings might benefit from alternatives like "as soon as possible" or "immediately".

Common error

Avoid using "asap" excessively in formal correspondence, as it can come across as demanding or unprofessional. Balance urgency with politeness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "asap" functions primarily as an adverb, modifying verbs to indicate urgency or immediacy. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread usage and acceptability.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Science

6%

Academia

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "asap" is a common abbreviation meaning "as soon as possible". Ludwig AI confirms it is a grammatically sound and widely used term, especially in news and media. While perfectly acceptable in many contexts, it's crucial to gauge the formality of the situation and audience, opting for alternatives like "immediately" or "as soon as possible" in more formal settings. Remember, effective communication balances urgency with professionalism, and choosing the right phrasing is key.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Right away

Indicates prompt action; slightly less formal than "immediately" but similar in urgency to "asap".

Immediately

Implies action without any delay; more formal than "asap".

Instantly

Highlights the speed of action; comparable to "immediately" but focused on the instantaneous nature.

Without delay

Emphasizes the absence of any waiting period; more formal and emphatic than "asap".

With utmost urgency

Emphasizes the critical nature of the timing; much more formal and lengthy than "asap".

At once

Suggests instant action; carries a slightly archaic or authoritative tone compared to "asap".

Quickly

A simple and direct way to indicate speed; lacks the urgency implied by "asap".

In short order

Indicates that something will be done quickly and efficiently; more of an idiom than "asap".

Expeditiously

Stresses efficiency and speed; quite formal and less common in everyday speech than "asap".

Posthaste

An older term indicating great speed and urgency; much more dramatic than "asap".

FAQs

What does "asap" mean?

"Asap" is an acronym that stands for "as soon as possible". It's used to indicate that something needs to be done urgently.

How can I use "asap" in a sentence?

You can use "asap" to indicate urgency, like in the sentence: "Please send me the report "asap"".

What can I say instead of "asap"?

You can use alternatives like "immediately", "right away", or "as soon as possible" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "asap" in professional emails?

While "asap" is commonly used, it's best to consider your relationship with the recipient and the overall tone of the email. In more formal settings, using "as soon as possible" might be more appropriate.