hurried - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
hurried Word Meanings
- to move or act with speed
- to cause someone to do something quickly
- to hurry up
hurried Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
hurried Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈhʌri/
US
/ˈhɜri/
hurried Word Etymology
hurry = hur- (to move quickly) + -y (process/condition). Originated from Old French ‘hurier’, influenced by Late Latin ‘hurriare’. Imagine a rabbit rushing to escape from a predator, symbolizing speed and urgency.
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 InputEnglish Brain Route
I reach for the door, grip tight, and pull it open, stepping into the busy hall. I move along the crowd, shoulders tense, my shoes tapping out a faster rhythm. A quick shift in pace makes my breath rise; I tighten my resolve to keep moving. I reach the stairs and tell myself to hurry, letting the moment push me upward.
Real Context
Hurry is a versatile English verb meaning to move or act with speed, to urge someone to do something quickly, or to cause a quick action overall. It often appears as hurry up in commands, as in Hurry up, we’re late, or as a causative phrase like The coach hurried the players onto the field. Learners tend to overemphasize speed without nuance, confuse hurry with rush, or misplace the object in transitive uses (hurry someone vs. hurry to do something). The etymology evokes urgency from a quick movement, reinforced by images of a rabbit racing to escape danger.
Usage Reminders
- Use hurry up for urging someone to move quickly. Be clear about the object: hurry someone or hurry to do something. Don’t say 'I am hurry'—say 'I am in a hurry' or simply 'I hurry' in simple present. Distinguish hurry from rush when describing impulsive speed. Prefer hurry up for actions, not for long processes. Practice with imperatives and with sentences like 'Hurry up, the bus is leaving.'
Common Misconceptions
- Hurry and rush are interchangeable in all contexts; they are not.
- Hurry can’t describe a mood or state; it describes action or urging.
- You cannot say 'I am hurry' in natural English.
- Hurry up is used for people or things that can move quickly, not long processes.
- To hurry someone is less common than asking them to hurry up.
Thinking Differences
This explains how English encodes urgency via verbs and phrasal forms; learners must notice that hurry can take an object (hurry someone) and is often paired with up, but not used in simple I am hurry constructions.
Learning Tips
- Practice with both transitive and intransitive uses.
- Record common collocations with up and with prepositions.
- Compare hurry with rush to notice nuance.
- Use in imperative form to give quick instructions.
- Create short dialogues emphasizing urgency.
- Watch for idiomatic expressions like 'hurry up' in media.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'hurried' mean?
A.To move slowly and with caution
B.To be relaxed and carefree
C.To act or move with haste
D.To complain about something
Step 2: Usage
Identify the sentence that uses 'hurried' correctly.
A.The cat hurriedly climbed the tree to relax.
B.He had a hurried breakfast, enjoying each bite.
C.She hurried to finish her homework before dinner.
D.They hurried their conversation and spoke quietly.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'hurried'?
A.Slow
B.Calm
C.Fast
D.Cautious
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'hurried'?
A.Anxious
B.Hasty
C.Leisurely
D.Chaotic
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life scenario where someone might be in a rushed state?
A.She decided to take her time while cooking for guests.
B.The students entered the classroom with a sense of urgency, glancing at the clock.
C.He walked at a leisurely pace during his morning stroll.
D.They relaxed in the garden, enjoying the sunny day.
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
🔥 Advanced
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