proceed swiftly

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "proceed swiftly" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when instructing someone to move forward quickly with a task or action. Example: "In order to meet the deadline, we must proceed swiftly with the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

"Slovenia needs now to proceed swiftly and decisively" with reforms, Mr. Rehn said.

The New York Times

If the compound is loose and porous, however, corrosion may proceed swiftly and continuously.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Ipsa will set to work immediately and we expect they will proceed swiftly to put these changes into effect".

The Guardian

Rudi was to get in next to the driver, and the car would then proceed swiftly to the control post at the first barrier, a barbed-wire fence.

The New Yorker

Francis confirmed that the process of elevating the slain bishop to the status of "blessed", which had been bureaucratically blocked till a year ago because of the cleric's suspected Marxist leanings, should now proceed swiftly.

The Economist

While no deal has been finalized, negotiations are expected to proceed swiftly, according to one person with knowledge of the matter, who spoke on condition of anonymity because the talks were private.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

Negotiations proceeded swiftly.

The New York Times

Pritchard ties in different colours, counting continually as she proceeds swiftly, according to her design template.

The Guardian - Money

"The Ground Truth" proceeds swiftly from scenes of recruitment in Venice, Calif., to a Marine Corps boot camp, to the killing fields of Iraq, to the home front.

The New York Times

Work proceeded swiftly, and on Aug. 27, 1939, von Ohain's HeS.3B engine enabled Erich Warsitz to make the world's first successful turbojet-powered flight in history in the Heinkel He 178.

Encyclopedia Britannica

There was no perceptible check to the progress of the blindworm; the major portion - the part that mattered - proceeded swiftly down the stony path to safety, and two inches of writhing tail remained in my fingers.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "proceed swiftly" to emphasize the need for rapid action, especially when time is a critical factor. It's suitable for formal contexts where efficiency and speed are valued.

Common error

While "proceed swiftly" is a valid phrase, it can sound overly formal in casual settings. Opt for alternatives like "move quickly" or "get cracking" when speaking with friends or in less formal communications.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "proceed swiftly" functions as a verb phrase, indicating the manner in which an action should be carried out. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically correct and appropriate for written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "proceed swiftly" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed phrase that signifies the need for rapid and efficient action. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for various contexts, including news reports, business communications, and official statements. While versatile, the phrase's slightly formal tone means it may be less appropriate for casual conversations, where simpler alternatives like "move quickly" might be more suitable. Remember to reserve its use when the emphasis on speed and efficiency is crucial.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

advance rapidly

Emphasizes the speed of movement forward.

move quickly

A more general term for fast movement or progress.

act promptly

Highlights the timeliness and immediacy of the action.

continue without delay

Focuses on uninterrupted progression.

press on expeditiously

Stresses efficiency and speed in continuing forward.

make haste

An older, more formal way of saying to hurry.

get cracking

An informal way to express starting something quickly.

jump to it

An idiomatic expression for starting something immediately.

step on it

Implies increasing speed or effort.

fast-track

Highlights an accelerated process or procedure.

FAQs

How can I use "proceed swiftly" in a sentence?

You can use "proceed swiftly" to emphasize the need for rapid action. For instance: "The investigation must "proceed swiftly" to uncover the truth."

What are some alternatives to "proceed swiftly"?

Alternatives include "move quickly", "act promptly", or "advance rapidly", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "proceed swiftly" too formal for everyday conversation?

Yes, "proceed swiftly" can be perceived as formal. In casual contexts, consider using phrases like "move fast" or "hurry up".

What is the difference between "proceed swiftly" and "proceed carefully"?

"Proceed swiftly" emphasizes speed, while "proceed carefully" focuses on caution and attention to detail. The choice depends on whether speed or accuracy is more important in the given situation.