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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

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
In practice, this can be as simple as typing the same prompt in different AI chatbots—as well as the models for each one (the option to change may be at top of the screen or close to the search bar)—and compare which tool gives the most helpful response. Christiaan Hetzner, Fortune, 15 July 2025 Even so, Grok 4 doesn't always look for Musk's guidance in formulating its answers; the output reportedly varies between prompts and users. ArsTechnica, 14 July 2025
Adjective
The violent quelling of mass protests against police brutality also prompted widespread criticism of his human rights record. semafor.com, 14 July 2025 The fire's rapid growth prompted mandatory evacuations for North Rim residents and visitors. Perry Vandell, AZCentral.com, 14 July 2025
Noun
Despite a prompt response by emergency personnel, both men were pronounced dead at the scene. Muri Assunção, New York Daily News, 4 July 2025 Ethan Olan is prompt and forever present in the classroom. Caroline Beck, IndyStar, 2 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for prompt
Recent Examples of Synonyms for prompt
Verb
  • What causes a 'heat dome'? Heat domes occur when an area of high pressure settles over a region and suppresses clouds, allowing intense sunshine to heat the ground and air above it efficiently.
    Joyce Orlando, The Tennessean, 22 July 2025
  • The Louisville Fire Department's budget allocation is causing disagreement between the firefighters union and city officials.
    Lillian Metzmeier, The Courier-Journal, 22 July 2025
Verb
  • Residents are urged to exercise caution, stay hydrated, and be aware of the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
    Joyce Orlando, The Tennessean, 22 July 2025
  • Donald Trump has also publicly stated his opposition to breaking encrypted communications, publicly urging the prime minister Kier Starmer not to introduce such measures.
    Barry Collins, Forbes.com, 21 July 2025
Adjective
  • The moment drew immediate backlash online and in international media, with critics calling their comments incendiary.
    Jessica Lynch, Billboard, 15 July 2025
  • Sanctions could have been immediate, if President Trump had wanted, or much higher - such as the 500 percent tariff rate being proposed in a bi-partisan bill in the US Senate.
    Matthew Chance, CNN Money, 15 July 2025
Adjective
  • The latest of the spacecraft, known as sounding rockets, most recently made a successful quick trip to space to study one of the most complex regions of the sun's atmosphere following a New Mexico launch.
    Eric Lagatta, USA Today, 21 July 2025
  • And getting there might require making a quick withdrawal.
    DeVonne Goode, Parents, 21 July 2025
Noun
  • This is a rebrand, which TJ’s does all the time for its products, but a nice reminder that these pickled Js are essential.
    Alex Beggs, Bon Appetit Magazine, 19 July 2025
  • That said, the event is a reminder: when AI is involved in hiring, data privacy must remain a top concern.
    Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 19 July 2025
Verb
  • Complete the Look Banana Republic Factory Linen-Blend Quilted Jumpsuit A set of coveralls like this linen-blend style can create a stylish no-fuss outfit.
    Rylee Johnston, People.com, 27 July 2025
  • Do not follow large vehicles closely - Large vehicles like trucks or buses can create a spray of water that can reduce your visibility.
    KANSAS CITY STAR WEATHER BOT, Kansas City Star, 26 July 2025
Verb
  • During his latter stint on the council, Spelman called on Austin police to reevaluate how officers spent their time and encouraged the city to consider alternative programs to reduce crime.
    Emiliano Tahui Gómez, Austin American Statesman, 25 July 2025
  • Community members are encouraged to see the stadium before the start of the 2025 football season.
    Katie Nixon, The Tennessean, 25 July 2025
Adjective
  • The swift decline of Vidalia Mills in Louisiana—if it can even be said to have truly taken off—is a telling example.
    Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 22 July 2025
  • If the governor opens the door to these projects, the blowback will be swift, vocal, and impossible to ignore.
    Laura Shindell, New York Daily News, 20 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Prompt.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/prompt. Accessed 29 Jul. 2025.

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