“Very quickly” is an adverbial phrase that emphasizes a high speed or rapidity of an action or process. Here are some synonyms and an analysis of their usage:
1. Rapidly
- Meaning:
- “Rapidly” means at a fast pace or with great speed. It is a more formal alternative to “very quickly.” For example, “The technology is advancing rapidly.” It implies a continuous and quick progression without much delay.
- Usage:
- Used in a wide range of contexts such as scientific progress (knowledge is growing rapidly), in business (sales are increasing rapidly), and in any situation where a quick and often consistent speed of change or action is emphasized. It's a good choice for more technical or objective descriptions.
2. Swiftly
- Meaning:
- “Swiftly” means in a quick and smooth manner. It often implies a sense of grace and efficiency in the speed. For example, “The eagle soared swiftly through the sky.” It gives an image of something moving with ease and quickness.
- Usage:
- Used to describe movements, both of living beings (animals moving swiftly) and inanimate objects (a swiftly flowing river). It's also used in more figurative senses to describe the efficient handling of tasks (the problem was solved swiftly).
3. Speedily
- Meaning:
- “Speedily” means with speed or quickly. It is a more old - fashioned or formal way of expressing quickness. For example, “The package was delivered speedily.” It emphasizes the importance of speed in the action.
- Usage:
- Used in formal writing such as business correspondence (your request will be processed speedily) or in more traditional literary contexts. It's not as commonly used in casual speech but can add a touch of formality when needed.
4. Promptly
- Meaning:
- “Promptly” means without delay or immediately. It emphasizes the timeliness and quick response to a situation. For example, “The customer service representative promptly answered the phone.” It implies a sense of responsibility and efficiency in the quick action.
- Usage:
- Used in service - related contexts (promptly served customers), in business operations (promptly executed orders), and in any situation where the focus is on a quick and punctual response.
5. Expeditiously
- Meaning:
- “Expeditiously” means with speed and efficiency. It implies a sense of getting something done quickly and well. For example, “The legal process was handled expeditiously.” It emphasizes the efficient use of time to complete a task or process.
- Usage:
- Used in formal and administrative contexts such as legal procedures (expeditiously resolve a case), in bureaucratic settings (process applications expeditiously), and in any situation where there is a need to emphasize quick and efficient handling.