Word
punctuality
Phoneticspunc·tu·al·i·ty, stress on the third syllable
US/ˌpəŋktʃuˈæɫɪti/
UK/pˌʌŋktʃuːˈælɪti/
Uncountable noun
Definition
n. the quality of being on time for appointments or events. It is a sign of respect and professionalism in many cultures.
n. the quality of arriving or performing an action at the exact time expected. Often associated with professional reliability and social etiquette.
Examples
“Punctuality is very important in this company.”
“The manager praised the team for their punctuality, noting that the project stayed on schedule because everyone arrived on time.”
“While some cultures view strict punctuality as a necessity for business success, others prioritize the social value of arriving slightly late to ensure a more relaxed atmosphere for the meeting.”
Examples
simple
“Punctuality is very important in this company.”
contextual
“The manager praised the team for their punctuality, noting that the project stayed on schedule because everyone arrived on time.”
complex
“While some cultures view strict punctuality as a necessity for business success, others prioritize the social value of arriving slightly late to ensure a more relaxed atmosphere for the meeting.”
Real-World Examples
“For a railway company proud of its record for punctuality, this year's disrupted schedule is posing a major challenge.” “Once known for their punctuality, trains now suffer regular delays, sometimes lasting as long as 12 to 15 hours.” Etymology
From punctual + -ity.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
NOUN
ADJECTIVE
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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englishreference.com/q/punctuality