Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective rapid contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of rapid are expeditious, fast, fleet, hasty, quick, speedy, and swift. While all these words mean "moving, proceeding, or acting with celerity," rapid applies to the movement itself, rather than to the thing that moves.

rapid current

When would expeditious be a good substitute for rapid?

Although the words expeditious and rapid have much in common, expeditious suggests efficiency together with rapidity of accomplishment.

the expeditious handling of an order

How are the words fast and rapid related?

Both fast and rapid are very close in meaning, but fast applies particularly to the thing that moves.

fast horses

When is it sensible to use fleet instead of rapid?

The meanings of fleet and rapid largely overlap; however, fleet adds the implication of lightness and nimbleness.

fleet runners

In what contexts can hasty take the place of rapid?

While in some cases nearly identical to rapid, hasty suggests hurry and precipitousness and often connotes carelessness.

a hasty inspection

Where would quick be a reasonable alternative to rapid?

The synonyms quick and rapid are sometimes interchangeable, but quick suggests promptness and the taking of little time.

a quick wit

When can speedy be used instead of rapid?

In some situations, the words speedy and rapid are roughly equivalent. However, speedy implies quickness of successful accomplishment and may also suggest unusual velocity.

speedy delivery of mail

When might swift be a better fit than rapid?

The words swift and rapid are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, swift suggests great rapidity coupled with ease of movement.

returned the ball with one swift stroke

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 rapid Thanks to the rapid ascension of brands like Ganni and Saks Potts in recent years, Danish fashion has become a global sensation with its unusual silhouettes, playful colors and patterns, and effortless, bike-ready vibe. Stephanie Sporn, Vogue, 1 July 2025 The changes come in the wake of the foundation’s rapid expansion over the past 15 years. Samantha Conti, Footwear News, 1 July 2025 Earthquakes’ sudden, rapid shaking can cause fires, tsunamis, landslides or avalanches. Don Sweeney, Sacbee.com, 1 July 2025 With the end of military restrictions on building came rapid expansion into working-class districts. Matthew Wills, JSTOR Daily, 1 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for rapid
Recent Examples of Synonyms for rapid
Adjective
  • Chicago police and City Hall officials were quick to note that the shooting was targeted and the victims didn’t live in the neighborhood.
    Sam Charles, Chicago Tribune, 9 July 2025
  • And 3) The other social media platforms have been quick to allow the swap.
    Tony Maglio, HollywoodReporter, 9 July 2025
Adjective
  • The finish is brisk with balanced acidity and a soft texture.
    Joseph V Micallef, Forbes.com, 28 June 2025
  • Examples of beneficial exercise include brisk walking, running, or cycling.
    Jamie Johnson, Verywell Health, 24 June 2025
Adjective
  • These strategic moves could reshape how fast renewable power is deployed, who controls it, and whether communities benefit equitably.
    Ken Silverstein, Forbes.com, 9 July 2025
  • If you're not already enrolled, sign up for a free 30-day trial to enjoy exclusive deals, fast and free shipping, and more.
    Maggie Horton, People.com, 9 July 2025
Adjective
  • Smith’s swift ascent has exceeded the already enormous expectations Houston had for him.
    Chandler Rome, New York Times, 28 June 2025
  • The Nets’ final move of the 2025 NBA Draft was a swift Day 2 trade.
    C.J. Holmes, New York Daily News, 27 June 2025
Adjective
  • As his health faded in the last year of his life, Neruda rushed to finish his story, which gives the last chapters of his book a galloping, fragmented quality.
    Tunku Varadarajan, WSJ, 25 June 2021
  • The artist was in Times Square last week to offer his latest corrective, unveiling a massive bronze statue of a young African American man in urban streetwear sitting astride a galloping horse.
    NBC News, NBC News, 7 Oct. 2019
Adjective
  • This could be helpful for homes with kids with varied interests or in my home, where a speedy, 55-inch TV in the living room is the best screen available by far.
    ArsTechnica, ArsTechnica, 5 July 2025
  • Most travelers hope for speedy security lines and simple layouts at airport — but some of America's travel hubs apparently soar above the rest.
    Deirdre Bardolf, FOXNews.com, 3 July 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Rapid.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/rapid. Accessed 13 Jul. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on rapid

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!