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adjective

prompt

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noun

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective prompt contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of prompt are apt, quick, and ready. While all these words mean "able to respond without delay or hesitation or indicative of such ability," prompt is more likely to connote training and discipline that fits one for instant response.

prompt emergency medical care

When is apt a more appropriate choice than prompt?

The meanings of apt and prompt largely overlap; however, apt stresses the possession of qualities (such as intelligence, a particular talent, or a strong bent) that makes quick effective response possible.

an apt student
her answer was apt and to the point

In what contexts can quick take the place of prompt?

Although the words quick and prompt have much in common, quick stresses instancy of response and is likely to connote native rather than acquired power.

quick reflexes
a keen quick mind

Where would ready be a reasonable alternative to prompt?

The words ready and prompt are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, ready suggests facility or fluency in response.

backed by a pair of ready assistants

Examples Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of prompt
Verb
Even more dangerous is the possibility that a Ukrainian missile strike or territorial takeover could throw a storage site into operational chaos, allowing rogue actors to seize its nuclear warheads—or inadvertently prompt Russian nuclear escalation. William M. Moon, Foreign Affairs, 5 Nov. 2024 That location disappointed many attendees due to its cramped layout, prompting AFM to reassess what venue would best serve its future. Patrick Brzeski, The Hollywood Reporter, 5 Nov. 2024
Adjective
Anaphylaxis requires prompt medical attention because of symptoms that include throat swelling, difficulty breathing, a sudden drop in blood pressure and loss of consciousness. Gordon G. Chang, Newsweek, 31 Oct. 2024 Limit triggers like harsh chemicals and drying ingredients. Reduce stress levels and get plenty of sleep, as stress can worsen dandruff symptoms or prompt flare-ups. Cristina Mutchler, Verywell Health, 29 Oct. 2024
Noun
This yearlong guide, incorporating writing prompts, exercises and insights on astrology and more, is sure to be a useful resource for every season. Carly Tagen-Dye, People.com, 25 Oct. 2024 While smaller datasets are more prone to deliver incorrect responses, utilities can easily curate their data sources and establish proper parameters around each prompt. Abhay Gupta, Forbes, 4 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for prompt 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for prompt
Verb
  • An ankle injury caused Williams to miss two games last season — October losses to the Vikings and the Bengals — after not practicing those weeks.
    Cam Inman, The Mercury News, 15 Nov. 2024
  • Exposure to high concentrations can cause people to lose consciousness and can lead to long-term effects such as headaches, poor attention span, poor memory and poor motor function, according to the Environmental Protection Agency.
    Noelle Phillips, The Denver Post, 15 Nov. 2024
Verb
  • Yes, Donald Trump urged congressional Republicans to reject the bill, but three years of inaction were a bigger issue for voters.
    Letters To The Editor, The Mercury News, 15 Nov. 2024
  • Murphy urged residents to take the drought warning seriously and reduce water use voluntarily.
    Melissa Chan, NBC News, 13 Nov. 2024
Adjective
  • In the immediate aftermath of a major assassination, groups certainly can experience communications breakdowns, confusion, grief, and paranoia.
    Sarah E. Parkinson, Foreign Affairs, 11 Nov. 2024
  • The move drew immediate condemnation from the abuse victims and their attorneys, whose lawsuits were effectively paused while a bankruptcy judge reviewed the church’s finances and assets.
    Jakob Rodgers, The Mercury News, 10 Nov. 2024
Adjective
  • Don’t be too quick to buy into something that is a fleeting desire.
    Eugenia Last, The Mercury News, 16 Nov. 2024
  • This video raises a lot of questions, many of which commenters on the video were quick to point out.
    Katie Hill, Outdoor Life, 14 Nov. 2024
Noun
  • Despite the confusion, the footage is a clear reminder that that yes, black bears will eat deer.
    Katie Hill, Outdoor Life, 14 Nov. 2024
  • Last week, someone taped a picture of a hammer onto McManus’ chamber door in jest as a final reminder to the judge, who is laying down his gavel after 27 years on the bench.
    Nick Ferraro, Twin Cities, 7 Nov. 2024
Verb
  • Their dedication brings Saratoga’s rich history and vibrant landscape to life, creating a place where everyone can feel connected and inspired.
    Yan Zhao, The Mercury News, 10 Nov. 2024
  • Colorado’s 8th District, the state’s newest congressional district, was created during the 2021 redistricting process and designed to be an evenly split swing district.
    Lauren Penington, The Denver Post, 10 Nov. 2024
Verb
  • Delafield said voting means a lot to him, as his World War II veteran father always encouraged his kids.
    Brittany Carloni, The Indianapolis Star, 6 Nov. 2024
  • Nick Seidler, 56, of Wauwatosa, MSOE coordinator of special events, was walking to work outside the polling place and said he was encouraged to see so many students voting.
    Madison Lammert, Journal Sentinel, 6 Nov. 2024
Adjective
  • The ability to holistically view the problem or situation at hand and leverage data to make a decision that leads to the most optimal outcomes powers flawless, swift execution.
    Naveen Singh, Forbes, 5 Nov. 2024
  • His comments receive swift backlash from Democrats and Republicans.
    Karissa Waddick, USA TODAY, 5 Nov. 2024

Thesaurus Entries Near prompt

Cite this Entry

“Prompt.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/prompt. Accessed 21 Nov. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on prompt

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