# promptly

/ˈpɹɑmpɫi/ (US) · /pɹˈɒmptli/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/promptly
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. without delay

adverb · CEFR B2

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

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

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

### 2. exactly on time

adverb · CEFR B2

at exactly the right time, not late.

For teachers: at the exact time specified; punctually.

- The meeting will begin promptly at nine o'clock tomorrow morning.
- The train departed promptly at noon, leaving several late passengers stranded on the platform.

Usage: often used with specific clock times.

Teaching tip: In formal contexts, 'promptly' is preferred over 'sharp' or 'on the dot'.

## Examples

- The meeting started promptly at nine o'clock.
- Please reply promptly to the invitation so we can finalize the guest list.
- The legal team responded promptly to the court's request for additional documentation, ensuring that the trial proceeded without any further administrative delays.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.