fast approaching

USAGE SUMMARY

"fast approaching" is correct and is usable in written English.
You can use it to describe something that is soon to happen, often with a sense of urgency. Example: The deadline for the project is fast approaching, so everyone needs to work hard to finish on time.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Elections are fast approaching.

Independent

UNICEF: Halloween is fast approaching!

The New Yorker

The end is fast approaching.

The New York Times

Numerous deadlines are fast approaching.

The Economist

Halloween is fast approaching.

The Guardian - Travel

Dusk was fast approaching.

The New York Times - Magazine

Time for these is now fast approaching.

The Economist

But 2017 is fast approaching..

The Guardian

Crunch time is fast approaching.

The Guardian - Business

Cyber Monday is fast approaching.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Regardless, there is a fast-approaching deadline.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "fast approaching" to create a sense of urgency or anticipation, especially when discussing deadlines, events, or significant changes.

Common error

While versatile, "fast approaching" may sound slightly formal in very casual conversations. Opt for simpler alternatives like "coming soon" in informal settings to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "fast approaching" functions as a modifier, typically used to describe a noun (often an event, deadline, or time period) that is imminent or nearing. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

81%

Academia

10%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "fast approaching" is a versatile phrase used to indicate that something is nearing. Ludwig AI validates its correct usage and prevalence in diverse contexts. Predominantly found in news and media, it effectively conveys imminence and sometimes urgency. Consider context when choosing alternatives like "drawing near" or "imminent" to match the desired formality. Use "fast approaching" to set expectations and prepare your audience for upcoming events or deadlines.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

fast upon us

Similar to "fast approaching" but with slightly more emphasis on the impact of the approaching event.

imminent

This is a more formal synonym, stressing the inevitability and nearness of an event.

coming soon

A more direct and simple way of expressing that something will happen in the near future.

drawing near

This alternative focuses on the action of getting closer, often implying a gradual approach.

close at hand

Emphasizes the proximity and accessibility of something that is about to occur.

on the horizon

This alternative suggests that something is becoming visible or apparent in the near future.

just around the corner

Indicates that an event is very near in terms of time or location.

in the offing

This alternative means likely to happen or appear soon.

in sight

This alternative indicates that the end or target is visible and therefore nearing.

nearing completion

Specifically refers to the final stages of a process or project.

FAQs

How can I use "fast approaching" in a sentence?

You can use "fast approaching" to describe an event or deadline that is happening soon. For example, "The deadline is "fast approaching", so make sure to submit your work on time."

What can I say instead of "fast approaching"?

You can use alternatives like "drawing near", "imminent", or "coming soon" depending on the context.

Is there a difference between "fast approaching" and "rapidly approaching"?

While both phrases convey a sense of something nearing, "rapidly approaching" may emphasize the speed of the approach more strongly than ""fast approaching"".

Can "fast approaching" be used for both positive and negative events?

Yes, ""fast approaching"" can be used for both positive events (e.g., "Summer is fast approaching") and negative events (e.g., "The deadline is fast approaching"). The context determines the overall tone.