What does "promptly" mean?

1. (without delay) doing something immediately or very quickly after being asked or after something happens. 2. (exactly on time) at exactly the right time, not late.

How do you use "promptly"?

typically follows the verb it modifies or appears at the end of the clause. often used with specific clock times.

promptly

adv.

US //ˈpɹɑmpɫi// UK //pɹˈɒmptli// prompt·ly

1 without delay (adv.)
B2 Upper Intermediate

doing something immediately or very quickly after being asked or after something happens.

performed immediately or without hesitation following a request, event, or instruction.

Example

When the alarm went off, the staff promptly evacuated the building.

Example

The customer service team responded promptly to the complaint, resolving the technical issue within an hour of the initial report.

Usage

typically follows the verb it modifies or appears at the end of the clause.
- slowly
- eventually
2 exactly on time (adv.)
B2 Upper Intermediate

at exactly the right time, not late.

at the exact time specified; punctually.

Example

The meeting will begin promptly at nine o'clock tomorrow morning.

Example

The train departed promptly at noon, leaving several late passengers stranded on the platform.

Usage

often used with specific clock times.

Teacher's tip

In formal contexts, 'promptly' is preferred over 'sharp' or 'on the dot'.
- punctually
- on time
- sharp
- late
- tardily

Origin

From prompt + -ly.