promptly

Promptly is an adverb meaning without delay; in a timely or prompt manner. It describes actions carried out quickly after a request, instruction, or event. As a modifier, promptly often emphasizes adherence to a deadline or expectation of a quick response.

In usage, promptly is common in formal and semi-formal writing and speech. Typical collocations include respond promptly, act promptly, pay promptly, and arrive promptly. It conveys a sense of obligation to reply or take action within a stated timeframe, rather than merely being fast.

The adverb derives from the adjective prompt, which comes from Old French prompt and ultimately Latin promptus, meaning "ready" or "brought forth." The modern sense "without delay" emerged in early modern English and has since remained a standard part of formal prose and administrative language.

In legal, business, and bureaucratic contexts, promptly often carries a tone of duty or expectation, signaling that timeliness is required or respected. In casual usage, it can simply indicate a quick response, but it remains more precise than general "fast" or "soon."

Related terms include quickly, fast, and immediately; antonyms include tardily and slowly. The word contrasts with punctuality (being on schedule) and immediacy (no delay in emphasis).