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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
It's powered by a mix of Gemini 2.5 Flash, Imagen, and Veo 3 to understand the prompt and caption the photo, generate the bot image, and animate it. Adrienne So, Wired News, 5 Sep. 2025 Type in these prompts: Find new ways to monitor highways. Emma Burleigh, Fortune, 5 Sep. 2025
Adjective
Online posts, including one shared by the Idaho Freedom Foundation, a far-right think tank, denounced Berriochoa and prompted calls to the Department of Labor and even former employers and educators of Berriochoa. Shannon Tyler, Idaho Statesman, 13 Sep. 2025 In recent years, Grupo Firme, Fuerza Regida, and Peso Pluma have received similar warnings from different cartels, prompting them to cancel shows to protect themselves and their fans. Tomás Mier, Rolling Stone, 13 Sep. 2025
Noun
Of course, regular vacuuming and prompt stain treatment are the best ways to keep your upholstery looking its best. Mary Marlowe Leverette, Southern Living, 6 Sep. 2025 In a statement provided to Fox News Digital, Jarryd Gonzales, spokesperson for the Roman Catholic Diocese of Orange, confirmed the incident and thanked local law enforcement for their prompt action. Stepheny Price, FOXNews.com, 3 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for prompt
Recent Examples of Synonyms for prompt
Verb
  • Our brains evolve against friction, which means challenges that are difficult enough to promote growth but not so overwhelming as to cause surrender.
    Cornelia C. Walther, Forbes.com, 12 Sep. 2025
  • There have been several Republican senatorial candidates who have caused major headaches for the party.
    Kimberly Ross, The Washington Examiner, 12 Sep. 2025
Verb
  • Plaintiffs, including people who benefited from the legal protections, urged the appeals court to endorse the district court ruling, which found that Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem could not categorically end protections for these groups, but instead had to evaluate each case individually.
    Michael Casey, Twin Cities, 13 Sep. 2025
  • Ficco urged those who sports bet to use reputable online big platforms, do research about where people deposit their money and be cautious.
    Patricio Chile, ABC News, 13 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • Kraft caught the ball just 5 yards downfield and safety Will Harris had a chance to make an immediate tackle.
    Rob Reischel, Forbes.com, 12 Sep. 2025
  • His team have the immediate fixtures to succeed, facing Sunderland and West Ham next.
    Holly Shand, New York Times, 11 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • Additionally, the company stands out by prioritizing culture and vision over quick commissions.
    William Jones, USA Today, 11 Sep. 2025
  • Roberson, leader of the church since 2023, has also opened the doors of the Cathedral from Monday-Saturday for tours, prayers or anyone walking by who needs a quick respite from the Miami heat.
    Lauren Costantino, Miami Herald, 10 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • Paired with a slouchy (albeit Chanel) camel jacket and matching bag, the outfit felt like a deliberate steer away from the period-drama looks of late, a reminder that, despite the bodice-ripping fan edits, Robbie is very much the modern woman.
    Olivia Allen, Vogue, 12 Sep. 2025
  • While no harm was done, the dog's refusal to be moved served as a reminder of how pets often view human comforts as their own.
    Melissa Fleur Afshar, MSNBC Newsweek, 12 Sep. 2025
Verb
  • Turns out Stephano was pondering beltmaking too, leading the two to partner on a new business venture creating small-batch leather pieces and metal accessories.
    Jean E. Palmieri, Footwear News, 12 Sep. 2025
  • The collection features approximately 350 works created in Cuba from the revolution through the 2000s.
    The Editors, JSTOR Daily, 12 Sep. 2025
Verb
  • Readers should not rely solely on the content of this article and are encouraged to seek professional advice tailored to their specific circumstances.
    Lyssanoel Frater, USA Today, 12 Sep. 2025
  • The Associated Press reported that Robinson’s father recognized his son from the images released by law enforcement, and then encouraged his son to turn himself in.
    Ted Johnson, Deadline, 12 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • The swift guilty verdict for Arne Cheyenne Johnson, whose girlfriend had recently been mauled by his victim, speaks to the court and the public’s reaction to that wild legal strategy.
    Kevin Dolak, HollywoodReporter, 10 Sep. 2025
  • Israel’s strike on a Hamas compound in Doha this week drew swift condemnation from Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Europe, and even the US, which said the bombing violated Qatar’s sovereignty.
    Mohammed Sergie, semafor.com, 10 Sep. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Prompt.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/prompt. Accessed 17 Sep. 2025.

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