expedite - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
expedite Word Meanings
- to make something happen sooner
- to speed up a process
- to facilitate or complete a task more quickly
expedite Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
expedite Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈɛkspədaɪt/
US
/ˈɛkspədaɪt/
expedite Word Etymology
ex- = out + pedis = foot; Latin origin, through Old French to English. Imagine someone rushing out on foot to get things done faster.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Expedite is a verb that means to cause something to happen sooner or to speed up a process. It is often used in business, logistics, and project management when a delay must be overcome. You might expedite shipping to get a package faster, expedite an approval to pass a permit more quickly, or expedite a workflow by removing unnecessary steps. In formal writing, expedite feels more official and action‑oriented than simply 'speed up' or 'hasten', and it implies deliberate steps or coordination to shorten a timeline. Related verbs include accelerate and hasten, though each carries a slightly different nuance.
Usage Reminders
- 1) Use with a concrete object: expedite the process, expedite an order. 2) It is formal; reserve for official writing. 3) Distinguish from accelerate and hasten by noting the need for deliberate steps. 4) Pronounce ek-SPED-eyt. 5) Don’t overuse; apply when you truly want to shorten a timeline. 6) Check collocations in context (expedite the review, expedite the shipment).
Common Misconceptions
- Expedite does not mean you should skip important steps or cut corners.
- It is not slang; it is formal and not for casual use.
- Expedite is a verb, not a noun here (expedite vs expeditious).
- It does not apply to every fast action—there must be a specified process or item.
- Expedite implies intervention or coordination, not mere speed.
Thinking Differences
Expedite in English signals a formal, action-oriented push to shorten a timeline through deliberate steps or coordination.
Learning Tips
- Learn common collocations: expedite the process, expedite a shipment.
- Pair with a direct object to show what is being sped up.
- Note the formal tone; reserve for business or official writing.
- Compare with accelerate and hasten to choose the right nuance.
- Practice pronunciation: ek-SPED-eyt.
- Use real contexts, like planning scenarios or workflow optimizations.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'expedite' used correctly?
A.She intentionally slowed down to expedite her journey.
B.The slow response only expedited the resolution of the issue.
C.The teacher expedited the assignment by giving extra time.
D.He decided to postpone the project in order to expedite the process.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'expedite'?
A.Delay
B.Obstruct
C.Hinder
D.Facilitate
Step 4: Opposite Words
Which word is an antonym of 'expedite'?
A.Accelerate
B.Expeditious
C.Delay
D.Hasten
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context would you want to expedite a task?
A.Cooking a gourmet meal
B.Waiting for a slow internet connection
C.Taking a leisurely stroll
D.Submitting a time-sensitive report
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