quickly - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
quickly Word Meanings
- At a fast speed or with little delay
- In a short time; soon
- In a brisk or lively manner; quickly
quickly Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
quickly Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈkwɪk.li/
US
/ˈkwɪk.li/
quickly Word Etymology
1) Root decomposition: root quick + suffix -ly forms the adverb quickly. 2) Historical origin: quick comes from Old English cwic 'alive, fast', from Proto-Germanic *kwikaz; the -ly suffix comes from Old English -līc, used to form adverbs. 3) Memory image: picture a sprinter named Quick who dashes along a track, leaving a bright trail that spells quickly.
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 tap the stopwatch, then push my chair back and lean in. The second hand races, the room seems to move a little faster, and my thoughts tighten around what comes next. I feel my breath quicken, my fingers adjust their grip, and I decide to keep the pace up so I can finish quickly. When I need to act in daily life, I push through hesitation, set my aim, and move with purpose to get things done quickly.
Real Context
Quickly is a common English adverb describing how an action is performed: at a fast speed, with little delay, or in a short amount of time. It often follows the verb or an auxiliary, as in run quickly or finish quickly, but can also modify adjectives in phrases like become quickly noticeable. Learners should be careful not to mistake quickly for soon in every context; quickly emphasizes speed, not necessarily immediacy. It contrasts with the adjective quick, which modifies nouns, as in a quick answer. Placement matters for emphasis: she spoke quickly but seldom implies zeal; quickly can also convey urgency in commands or responses.
Usage Reminders
- Place quickly after the main verb or auxiliary: finish quickly
- Avoid using quickly with adjectives alone; use quick for adjectives before nouns: a quick response
- Do not overuse quickly or use it where soon would be clearer: I will do it soon, not I will do it quickly if time is not critical
- Use as quickly as possible for emphasis on speed in formal writing: We must respond as quickly as possible
- Remember that quickly conveys speed and sometimes urgency, not a simple future moment.
Common Misconceptions
- Quickly and fast are interchangeable in all contexts
- Quickly always means immediately
- You can use quickly before every verb without sound changes
- Very quickly equals extremely fast in all situations
- Quickly can replace soon in casual speech
Thinking Differences
English speakers use quickly to emphasize speed directly after the verb; mistakes arise when learners treat quickly like an interchangeable synonym for fast or soon, or place it awkwardly in questions. In many languages, adverbs of speed are expressed differently, or with different particles, making position and nuance tricky.
Learning Tips
- Identify verbs that commonly take quickly
- Practice with both affirmative and negative sentences
- Compare quickly with soon and fast to feel subtle nuances
- Use as quickly as possible in formal contexts
- Pay attention to placement after auxiliary verbs
- Listen to native speakers for natural rhythm
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence below uses 'quickly' correctly?
A.The cat quickly swam in the ocean.
B.He sadly quickly ate his lunch.
C.She walked quickly to the bus stop.
D.They quickly sleep at night.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'quickly'?
A.Quietly
B.Rapidly
C.Carefully
D.Gently
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'quickly'?
A.Slowly
B.Loudly
C.Suddenly
D.Proudly
Step 5: Mastery
Can you give an example of a real-life scenario of 'quickly'?
A.The chef prepared the meal slowly.
B.She painted the room carefully.
C.The runners quickly crossed the finish line.
D.He read the book loudly.
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
🔥 Advanced
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