prompt

USAGE SUMMARY

"prompt" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it as an adjective (e.g. prompt service) or a verb (e.g. She prompted me with the answer). Example sentence: The prompt delivery of the package was much appreciated.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"At this late date, prompt passage of the USA Freedom Act by the Senate is the best way to minimize any possible disruption of our ability to protect the American people," Clapper said on Friday.

The Guardian

"No, thank you: just tell me where I can get a job," was his prompt reply.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The outcry helped prompt the city's first comprehensive zoning law requiring tall buildings to have "setbacks" at higher floors.

The Guardian

It might prompt Sinn Fein, whose five MPs currently boycott the Commons, to start turning up at Westminster on the grounds that they shouldn't leave all the opportunities to influence events to their Unionist rivals.

The Guardian - Opinion

More major work would surely prompt larger demonstrations.

The Guardian - Business

But charities warned that prompt diagnosis and treatment were vital to ensure it improved as much as ministers want.

The Guardian

However, Hamid Mohammadi, Digikala's co-founder, hopes that Iran's burgeoning tech scene will prompt more Iranians to return to their homeland.

The Guardian - Tech

Time to quickly select Andy Fairweather-Low's Wide Eyed And Legless to prompt his memory and spark his conscience: he needs to be in a position to grant mercy to poor innocents led astray by "God's grain".

The Guardian - Music

The ThingLink resource can then be used next lesson as a starter activity, essay writing prompt, revision tool or visual trigger to reinforce learning – all of which students can access on their mobile devices.

The Guardian

Ashcroft did not prompt voters by naming candidates, although he did ask voters to think of the candidates standing in the constituency.

The Guardian

As a consequence of allowing these military installations, any opportunity for a preemptive strike against the North's nuclear sites has been lost, for fear it would prompt an attack on Seoul and other parts of the South.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "prompt" as an adjective, ensure it clearly modifies a noun related to time or action, such as "prompt response" or "prompt service".

Common error

Avoid using "prompt" solely as a synonym for "quick" in all contexts. "Prompt" implies readiness and willingness, not just speed. Consider the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Linguistic Context

The word "prompt" functions as a verb, adjective, or noun, each with distinct grammatical roles. As a verb, it signifies initiating or encouraging action. As an adjective, it describes something that is ready or punctual. As a noun, it denotes a cue or reminder. Ludwig AI confirms its versatility.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Formal & Business

27%

Science

26%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the word "prompt" is a versatile term functioning as a verb, adjective, or noun, each with specific nuances. Its core meaning involves readiness, timeliness, or initiation, and it is frequently used in contexts such as news, business, and scientific writing. The word is considered grammatically correct. Ludwig AI confirms the adaptability and proper usage of the term, suggesting it is appropriate for use in various settings. Being aware of its multiple roles helps writers employ it accurately and effectively.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Immediate

Focuses on the lack of delay, similar to the adjective form of "prompt".

Punctual

Emphasizes being on time, a specific aspect of the adjective "prompt".

Expeditious

Highlights efficiency and speed in action, relating to the proactive sense of "prompt".

Instigate

Focuses on initiating or causing an action, mirroring the verb form of "prompt".

Motivate

Emphasizes inspiring or encouraging someone to act, similar to "prompt" in certain contexts.

Cue

Refers to a signal or reminder, similar to the noun usage of "prompt".

Reminder

Highlights the aspect of calling something to mind, like a "prompt".

On time

Stresses adherence to a schedule, a meaning related to the adjective "prompt".

Without delay

Emphasizes the lack of delay, capturing the essence of quick action implied by "prompt".

Lead to

Focuses on causing or resulting in something, relating to the verb form of "prompt".

FAQs

How can I use "prompt" in a sentence?

"Prompt" can be used as a verb, adjective, or noun. For example: "The alarm prompted me to wake up" (verb), "He gave a prompt reply" (adjective), or "The actor needed a prompt" (noun).

What is a good alternative to the word "prompt" when used as a verb?

Alternatives to "prompt" as a verb include "instigate", "motivate", or "cause", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

What can I say instead of "prompt" when describing someone's actions?

When describing actions, consider using "immediate", "punctual", or "expeditious" to emphasize speed and efficiency.

What's the difference between "prompt" and "quick"?

"Prompt" implies readiness and willingness to act without hesitation, while "quick" simply refers to speed. A "quick" response might be fast but not necessarily readily available, whereas a "prompt" response is both ready and fast.