at lightning speed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at lightning speed" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that happens very quickly or at a rapid pace. Example: "The new software processes data at lightning speed, making it much more efficient than the previous version."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Rumours travelled at lightning speed.

The Guardian

At lightning speed, in fact.

The New York Times - Food

I'm moving at lightning speed.

The New York Times

Chemical reactions occur at lightning speed.

The Guardian

From there things moved at lightning speed.

The New York Times

TMZ did this at lightning speed.

The Guardian

The murder hunt moved at lightning speed.

The Guardian - Travel

At lightning speed the debate became grandiose.

The New York Times

You are always moving locations at lightning speed.

The Guardian - Film

For the most part, they move at lightning speed.

The New York Times

Moreover, computers can communicate with each other at lightning speed.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "at lightning speed" when you want to emphasize the exceptional quickness of an action or process. It adds vividness to your writing, making the speed more relatable to the reader. For instance, instead of saying "the data was processed quickly", you can say "the data was processed "at lightning speed"".

Common error

While "at lightning speed" is widely understood, it can sound informal or hyperbolic in certain formal or academic contexts. Opt for alternatives like "rapidly" or "expeditiously" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at lightning speed" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying verbs to indicate the speed at which an action occurs. Ludwig shows its common usage in describing the rapidity of various processes and events.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

81%

Huffington Post

12%

Wiki

1%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "at lightning speed" is a common and grammatically correct adverbial phrase used to describe something happening very quickly. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is generally accepted in written English and primarily appears in news and media contexts. While it adds vividness, consider using more formal alternatives like "rapidly" in professional settings. The numerous examples of "at lightning speed" demonstrate its versatility in conveying speed across various domains. While widely accepted and understood, avoiding overuse and substituting in formal and professional environments is suggested.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at a blistering pace

Similar to "at lightning speed", but it uses the imagery of a blister to convey speed.

at a rapid pace

This phrase emphasizes the consistent speed of the action or process.

in the blink of an eye

This idiom suggests instantaneous action or a very short time frame.

with breakneck speed

This phrase indicates dangerous or reckless speed.

very quickly

This is a more straightforward adverbial phrase emphasizing speed.

at warp speed

Evokes science fiction imagery to indicate extreme velocity.

extremely fast

This alternative uses a more general adjective to describe the speed.

swiftly

A concise adverb indicating quickness.

with great rapidity

This is a more formal alternative using a noun to convey speed.

expeditiously

A formal term indicating efficient and speedy action.

FAQs

How can I use "at lightning speed" in a sentence?

You can use "at lightning speed" to describe something that happens very fast. For example, "The news spread "at lightning speed" through social media."

What are some alternatives to saying "at lightning speed"?

Alternatives include "very quickly", "at a rapid pace", or "swiftly", depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "at lightning speed" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "at lightning speed" might be perceived as informal in very formal contexts. Consider using alternatives like "rapidly" or "expeditiously" for a more professional tone.

What does "at lightning speed" mean?

The phrase "at lightning speed" means something happens extremely quickly or rapidly, similar to the speed of lightning.