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Synonyms

swiftly

American  
[swift-lee] / ˈswɪft li /

adverb

  1. with great speed or velocity.

    Catching a reflection in my mask lens, I swiftly turned around to see an 18-foot great white shark just yards away, looking straight at me!

  2. without delay; promptly; quickly.

    Behavior issues will be dealt with swiftly and decisively.


Etymology

Origin of swiftly

swift ( def. ) + -ly

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The booster fell swiftly back to Earth, uncontrolled, into the Gulf of Mexico.

From Barron's • May 22, 2026

Even if the Strait of Hormuz reopens swiftly, the risk of supply shocks and the impact on global inflation and growth will endure, say Janet Henry and Bethan Ellis in a note.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 19, 2026

I nipped out before the lunchtime rush and my first impression was "it's massive" followed swiftly by "how much?"

From BBC • May 15, 2026

"We will continue to respond swiftly and flexibly to changes in the business environment, including geopolitical risks, while striving to deliver safe, reliable, and satisfying products," the company said.

From Barron's • May 12, 2026

The nerves sent pure fire through me, but it swiftly receded to a dull, constant ache.

From "City of the Plague God" by Sarwat Chadda

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