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Definition of promptnext
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prompt

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adjective

prompt

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noun

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective prompt contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of prompt are apt, quick, and ready. While all these words mean "able to respond without delay or hesitation or indicative of such ability," prompt is more likely to connote training and discipline that fits one for instant response.

prompt emergency medical care

When is apt a more appropriate choice than prompt?

The meanings of apt and prompt largely overlap; however, apt stresses the possession of qualities (such as intelligence, a particular talent, or a strong bent) that makes quick effective response possible.

an apt student
her answer was apt and to the point

In what contexts can quick take the place of prompt?

Although the words quick and prompt have much in common, quick stresses instancy of response and is likely to connote native rather than acquired power.

quick reflexes
a keen quick mind

Where would ready be a reasonable alternative to prompt?

The words ready and prompt are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, ready suggests facility or fluency in response.

backed by a pair of ready assistants

How does the adjective prompt contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of prompt are apt, quick, and ready. While all these words mean "able to respond without delay or hesitation or indicative of such ability," prompt is more likely to connote training and discipline that fits one for instant response.

prompt emergency medical care

When is apt a more appropriate choice than prompt?

The meanings of apt and prompt largely overlap; however, apt stresses the possession of qualities (such as intelligence, a particular talent, or a strong bent) that makes quick effective response possible.

an apt student
her answer was apt and to the point

In what contexts can quick take the place of prompt?

Although the words quick and prompt have much in common, quick stresses instancy of response and is likely to connote native rather than acquired power.

quick reflexes
a keen quick mind

Where would ready be a reasonable alternative to prompt?

The words ready and prompt are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, ready suggests facility or fluency in response.

backed by a pair of ready assistants

How does the adjective prompt contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of prompt are apt, quick, and ready. While all these words mean "able to respond without delay or hesitation or indicative of such ability," prompt is more likely to connote training and discipline that fits one for instant response.

prompt emergency medical care

When is apt a more appropriate choice than prompt?

The meanings of apt and prompt largely overlap; however, apt stresses the possession of qualities (such as intelligence, a particular talent, or a strong bent) that makes quick effective response possible.

an apt student
her answer was apt and to the point

In what contexts can quick take the place of prompt?

Although the words quick and prompt have much in common, quick stresses instancy of response and is likely to connote native rather than acquired power.

quick reflexes
a keen quick mind

Where would ready be a reasonable alternative to prompt?

The words ready and prompt are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, ready suggests facility or fluency in response.

backed by a pair of ready assistants

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of prompt
Verb
Asian refiners have been cut off from critical supplies of crude that typically flow through the Strait of Hormuz, prompting some to consider reducing their fuel output. Bloomberg Wire, Dallas Morning News, 6 Mar. 2026 The impact of Trump joining forces with Israel last weekend to launch surprise strikes on Iran and the widening war that has since emerged prompted some to change their position. Callum Sutherland, Time, 6 Mar. 2026
Adjective
For Medicaid, the federal government will no longer supply its share of funding for Medicaid applicants who don't supply prompt proof of their lawful citizenship. Kayla Dwyer, IndyStar, 26 Feb. 2026 LinkedIn also found several technical skills are hot on the market, including AI prompt engineering and data annotation. Jake Angelo, Fortune, 26 Feb. 2026
Noun
When the strategy is weak or the prompt given AI reflects inexperience, the output delivers the same flaws — in more persuasive language. Chicago Tribune, 18 Feb. 2026 Keep up to date on beneficiaries Ever get a prompt on one of your accounts asking you to name a beneficiary? Matt Sedensky, Los Angeles Times, 18 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for prompt
Recent Examples of Synonyms for prompt
Verb
  • Where some see a form of protest, federal prosecutors allege intent to cause harm.
    James Queally, Los Angeles Times, 6 Mar. 2026
  • Earthquakes' sudden, rapid shaking can cause fires, tsunamis, landslides or avalanches.
    CA Earthquake Bot, Sacbee.com, 6 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • The intuitive Moon squares Saturn, pitting your 3rd House of Distractions against your 6th House of Pragmatism, urging specific words, meticulous timing, and sensible boundaries.
    Tarot.com, Sun Sentinel, 12 Mar. 2026
  • Nurphoto | Nurphoto | Getty Images Denmark's energy minister urged citizens of the Scandinavian country to cut back on energy use and ditch cars as the price of oil continues to skyrocket amid the Middle East conflict.
    Sawdah Bhaimiya, CNBC, 12 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • When a fire alarm fails, a sprinkler system shuts down, or a fire marshal issues a violation notice, businesses often face immediate safety and compliance concerns.
    Matthew Kayser, Miami Herald, 11 Mar. 2026
  • The response in her comments was immediate and effusive.
    Hanna Wickes, Charlotte Observer, 11 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • The veteran forward, re-acquired by the Panthers at the NHL trade deadline on Friday, made a quick impression in his first game back in South Florida with a goal and assist in Florida’s 4-3 come-from-behind win over the Detroit Red Wings on Tuesday at Amerant Bank Arena.
    Jordan McPherson, Miami Herald, 11 Mar. 2026
  • Experts interviewed by The Associated Press, citing satellite image analysis, say the school was probably struck amid a quick succession of bombs dropped on the compound.
    Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 10 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • Each bonkers bit is a nice reminder not to take anything too seriously.
    Ben Travers, IndieWire, 11 Mar. 2026
  • Freestone said the findings should serve as a strong reminder for people to be mindful of hygiene while traveling.
    Kelly McGreal, FOXNews.com, 11 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • The creation of this content included the use of AI based on templates created, reviewed and edited by journalists in the newsroom.
    KANSAS CITY STAR WEATHER BOT, Kansas City Star, 7 Mar. 2026
  • As of this January, more than 70% of Palisades residents displaced by the fire had still not returned to their homes, according to a survey commissioned by the Department of Angels, a nonprofit created by the California Community Foundation and SNAP Inc.
    Clara Harter, Los Angeles Times, 7 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • Those who noticed the earthquake are encouraged to report it through the USGS Felt Report form.
    CA Earthquake Bot, Sacbee.com, 7 Mar. 2026
  • One particular point of scrutiny was a $220 million ad campaign featuring Noem that encouraged people in the country illegally to leave voluntarily.
    DEMOCRAT-GAZETTE STAFF FROM WIRE REPORTS, Arkansas Online, 6 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • Evan Wanner walked off the Class AA state championship in double overtime with a swift wrister past Jerdee, returning Moorhead to the summit of Minnesota high school hockey.
    Andrew Cornelius, Twin Cities, 8 Mar. 2026
  • An anonymous tip in August 2025 triggered a swift investigation, leading to Mays’ arrest and a sting operation the next month.
    Steve Henson, Los Angeles Times, 7 Mar. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Prompt.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/prompt. Accessed 12 Mar. 2026.

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