promptness

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "promptness" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to the quality or state of being prompt; that is, to act or do something quickly or without delay. For example: She was applauded for her promptness in responding to the emergency.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

With far more promptness, Paypal accepts responsibility.

The Guardian - Money

On such measures as promptness of service and patient choice, which the WHO ranking exercise calls "responsiveness", America comes out top.

The Economist

Iso Rabins, the founder, had hoped to employ staff foragers but found that the laudable attributes of folks willing to forage full-time did not include promptness in returning calls or punctuality.

The Economist

But, given the scale and promptness of Russia's response, the script must have been written in Moscow.

The Economist

The promptness with which charges have been brought against the nine men arrested last week may strengthen the resolve of the government to move to 14 days.

The Economist

But, given the scale and promptness of Russia's response, the script must have been written in Moscow.Who is to blame?The rattling of sabres has been heard in both capitals for months, if not years.

The Economist

The chart shows the best performing of the big international airports for June 2013.Flightstats also ranked the the top international airlines for their promptness.

The Economist

The prognosis for syphilis varies with the promptness of diagnosis and treatment.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The dogs are judged on pace, range, handling response, style, game finding, marking of fallen game, retrieving (promptness, tender-mouthed or hard-mouthed), carry of game, and steadiness to flush and shot.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Retief's promptness in this task so alarmed Dingane that he had Retief and more than 60 of his followers massacred in February 1838.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The political crises of that remote kingdom repeatedly offered him opportunities to prove the correctness of his judgment and the promptness of his action, especially in military and economic affairs.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When emphasizing the importance of being on time or acting without delay, use "promptness" to underscore the value of efficiency and respect for schedules. For example, use "promptness" when you want to praise or incentivize quick feedback.

Common error

Avoid using "promptness" when you mean simple obedience or lack of initiative. "Promptness" implies a proactive readiness, not just following orders without thinking.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "promptness" is as a noun, typically referring to the quality or state of being prompt. Ludwig examples show it used to describe attributes valued in business or personal interactions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Encyclopedias

29%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Science

3%

Academia

2%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "promptness" is a noun that denotes the quality of being prompt, emphasizing efficiency and timeliness. Ludwig's analysis of numerous examples from varied sources confirms that it's grammatically correct and frequently used across news, encyclopedias, and formal business settings. When aiming to highlight the value of quick action, remember that "promptness" signifies more than just speed; it also implies readiness and effectiveness. Alternatives like "punctuality" or "timeliness" may be more appropriate depending on the specific context. Keep in mind that while "promptness" is a highly valued trait, it should not be confused with passive obedience, but rather seen as a proactive attribute.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

punctuality

Focuses specifically on adhering to a scheduled time.

timeliness

Emphasizes the appropriateness of an action with respect to time.

expeditiousness

Highlights efficiency and speed in completing a task.

alacrity

Suggests eagerness and cheerful readiness.

celerity

Implies swiftness and speed in action.

dispatch

Conveys quickness and efficiency in dealing with matters.

swiftness

Focuses on the speed at which something is done.

speediness

Emphasizes the rapid pace of an action.

immediacy

Stresses the lack of delay in responding or acting.

quickness

Indicates the ability to act or respond rapidly.

FAQs

How to use "promptness" in a sentence?

You can use "promptness" to describe the quality of being quick and efficient. For example, "The company values "promptness" in customer service" or "Her "promptness" in replying to emails is appreciated."

What can I say instead of "promptness"?

You can use alternatives like "punctuality", "timeliness", or "expeditiousness" depending on the specific context.

Which is correct, "promptness" or "promptitude"?

"Promptness" is the more commonly used and generally preferred term. "Promptitude" is a less frequent, though still valid, synonym for the quality of being prompt.

What's the difference between "promptness" and "speed"?

"Promptness" implies readiness and efficiency, whereas "speed" refers only to how quickly something is done. You can have speed without "promptness" if the action is delayed or inefficient.