What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
immediate
Example
We need to take immediate action to address this issue. [immediate: adjective]
Example
The company responded immediately to the customer's complaint. [immediately: adverb]
prompt
Example
Please give a prompt response to the email. [prompt: adjective]
Example
The teacher prompted the students to start working on their assignments. [prompted: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Immediate is more commonly used than prompt in everyday language, especially in situations that require urgent attention or action. Prompt is more commonly used in professional or formal contexts to describe efficiency or punctuality.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between immediate and prompt?
Prompt is generally considered more formal than immediate, as it is often used in professional or business settings to describe efficiency or punctuality.