promptly returned

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "promptly returned" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is returned quickly or without delay. Example: "The library book was promptly returned after the due date to avoid any late fees."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

It was promptly returned.

The New Yorker

President Hamid Karzai promptly returned home from the UN General Assembly meeting in New York.

The Economist

"Yes, my lady," he said and promptly returned with a jelly doughnut.

The New York Times

Albarn promptly returned to Hong Kong to write lyrics that would fit.

The Guardian - Music

Mr. Swanbeck was careful to add that it was promptly returned.

The New York Times

Mr. Kerry ducked into his private cabin and promptly returned, cake cutter in hand.

The New York Times

He batted.345 in 25 games and was promptly returned to the minors.

The New York Times - Sports

Attorney General Janet Reno said he should be promptly returned to Cuba.

The New York Times

But even then the mayor promptly returned to maligning and blaming the victim.

The New York Times

Afterward, the soul is promptly returned to the abode of the deceased, where it hovers around the doorstep.

Encyclopedia Britannica

When the low-tariff treaties of Napoleon III expired in 1877, the government promptly returned to protectionism.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "promptly returned" to emphasize efficiency and timeliness. It’s more impactful than simply saying something was "returned".

Common error

While appropriate in formal writing, "promptly returned" can sound overly formal in casual conversation. Opt for simpler alternatives like "returned quickly" or "gave it back right away" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "promptly returned" functions as an adverbial modifier plus a verb. According to Ludwig AI, it correctly describes an action (returning) done without delay. The adverb "promptly" modifies the verb "returned", emphasizing the immediacy of the action.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Encyclopedias

8%

Science

14%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

2%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "promptly returned" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression, particularly in news and media, encyclopedias, and scientific contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage, denoting an action completed without delay. While versatile, it’s best suited for professional or neutral registers, where the emphasis on efficiency and timeliness is valued. Consider alternatives like "returned without delay" in more informal settings. When used effectively, "promptly returned" strengthens the communication of responsible handling and swift action.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

returned without delay

Emphasizes the lack of waiting time in the act of returning.

swiftly restored

Highlights the speed and efficiency of the restoration process.

given back immediately

Focuses on the instantaneous nature of the return action.

restored expeditiously

Stresses the quick and efficient nature of the act of restoration.

returned in short order

Suggests that the return was carried out quickly and efficiently.

returned without hesitation

Highlights the decisiveness and lack of delay in the action of returning.

rapidly given back

Focuses on the speed at which something was returned.

immediately reinstated

Emphasizes the quick reinstatement of something to its original state or position.

sent back right away

Highlights the immediacy of sending something back.

rectified without delay

Stresses the efficient and timely correction of something.

FAQs

How can I use "promptly returned" in a sentence?

You can use "promptly returned" to indicate something was returned quickly. For example, "The stolen painting was "promptly returned" to the museum after the thief was caught."

What are some alternatives to "promptly returned"?

Alternatives include phrases such as "swiftly restored", "returned without delay", or "immediately reinstated", depending on the context.

Is it better to say "returned quickly" or "promptly returned"?

"Promptly returned" is more formal and emphasizes efficiency and lack of delay. "Returned quickly" is more general and suitable for informal contexts.

In what situations is it most appropriate to use "promptly returned"?

It's appropriate in formal contexts, such as news reports, official statements, or academic writing, where emphasizing the speed and efficiency of the return is important.