punctual

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'punctual' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe someone who arrives or does something on time. For example: "John is always punctual to school and work, so his boss and teachers appreciate his commitment."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It is being dubbed Britain's least punctual plane – a service run (somewhat inappropriately) by Wizz Air, the largest low-cost airline in central and eastern Europe.

The Guardian - Money

Since its first flight in 2004, Wizz Air has become one of Europe's largest no-frills airlines, carrying almost 14 million passengers a year, although it has also gained a reputation for tardiness, being accused of operating the UK's least punctual service.

The Guardian - Business

In contrast to the experiences of similar "blocks" at Christmas and New Year, the deliveries of Monday were kept, generally, very punctual, no considerable delay having been reported at head-quarters.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

He has just two aircraft so far, and plans to add just 8-10 a year while maintaining cost discipline: filling the planes, turning them round quickly, keeping them punctual.

The Economist

But the trains tend to be spacious, air-conditioned and punctual.

The Economist

The trains are punctual, clean, highly profitable and safer, to date, than the ordinary old lines: at least 21 people died in a horrific collision this week near Albacete, in the south-east.The AVE has also breathed life into towns along its route.

The Economist

According to the annual report published on June 3rd by Network Rail, which owns and maintains the track, 90.6% of trains ran on time last year (although Britain's definition of punctual includes trains up to ten minutes late).Many of rail's problems are due to its popularity.

The Economist

They give better marks, perhaps unconsciously, to the punctual, orderly and neat: fine qualities that society associates with girls, but which are not the same as reading and understanding a text.

The Economist

It is because he runs India's biggest private firm (measured by profits), Reliance Industries and, some say, the country, too.One balmy night last year Mr Ambani addressed a punctual audience of bigwigs at the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel as part of a discussion on "Reimagining India".

The Economist

With a slight echo of Spinal Tap (the loudest and most punctual rock group), they turned up at 8pm on the dot and delivered nearly three hours of music.

The Economist

Ah, no: the TGV high-speed trains are comfortable, punctual and cheap, and Air France still serves wine without charging extra.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "punctual" to convey reliability and respect for others' time. It suggests a positive attribute in professional and personal settings.

Common error

Avoid using "punctual" to describe events that simply happen quickly. "Punctual" specifically refers to being on time according to a schedule or expectation, not just fast or brief.

Linguistic Context

The word "punctual" functions primarily as an adjective, modifying nouns to describe someone or something that is on time and adheres to schedules. Ludwig confirms this, providing numerous examples of its use in this manner.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Encyclopedias

12%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

9%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "punctual" is a common and versatile adjective that describes adherence to schedules and timeliness. According to Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and widely used in various contexts, ranging from News & Media to encyclopedic and scientific sources. While synonyms such as "on time" and "prompt" exist, "punctual" carries a slightly more formal tone, making it appropriate for professional and academic discourse. A key writing tip is to specify what someone or something is punctual for to provide clear context. Avoid using it to simply mean 'fast' or 'quick'. Overall, "punctual" is a reliable and effective word for conveying the importance of being on time.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

on time

Focuses specifically on adhering to a set time.

prompt

Emphasizes readiness and quickness in meeting deadlines or appointments.

timely

Highlights the appropriateness of the timing, rather than just being on schedule.

not late

A simple, direct expression indicating the absence of tardiness.

on schedule

Indicates adherence to a pre-arranged timetable.

well-timed

Suggests that actions or events occur at the most opportune moment.

efficient

Stresses the effectiveness and lack of wasted time in completing tasks.

observant of deadlines

Focuses on respecting and meeting established deadlines.

adhering to timelines

Emphasizes the strict following of a set timeframe.

keeping to time

Highlights sticking to an established timeframe or appointment.

FAQs

How can I use "punctual" in a sentence?

You can use "punctual" to describe someone or something that is on time. For example, "She is always "punctual" for her appointments" or "The train service is "punctual" today".

What is a good synonym for "punctual"?

Good synonyms for "punctual" include "on time", "prompt", and "timely". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to say "punctual" or "on time"?

Both "punctual" and "on time" are correct, but "punctual" is more formal. Use "punctual" in professional or academic settings, and "on time" in more casual contexts.

What does it mean to be "punctual"?

To be "punctual" means to arrive or do something at the expected or agreed-upon time. It implies being reliable and respecting schedules.