22 Other Ways to Say “As Soon As Possible”
“As soon as possible” is one of those phrases we often lean on when we want something done urgently but don’t want to sound too pushy. Whether you’re asking someone to respond to an email, complete a task, or send a report, this phrase helps express that a quick turnaround is important.
However, there are many other expressions that carry a similar sense of urgency—some are softer and more polite, while others are more assertive or better suited for professional settings. By learning these alternatives, you’ll not only add variety to your vocabulary but also better tailor your tone depending on the context.
Other Ways to Say “As Soon As Possible”
1. At Your Earliest Convenience
Example: Please send the signed document back at your earliest convenience.
Meaning: This phrase is a courteous and professional way to request something promptly without sounding overly urgent or demanding.
Usage: Ideal in formal emails or messages when you want to maintain politeness while still indicating that timely action is appreciated.
2. Without Delay
Example: We must proceed to the next step without delay.
Meaning: This expression emphasizes the importance of taking action immediately, with no waiting period.
Usage: Works well in both formal and informal communication, especially when highlighting urgency in business or emergency situations.
3. Right Away
Example: I’ll call the client right away.
Meaning: It implies immediate action, often with no hesitation or pause.
Usage: Frequently used in casual conversations but can also be appropriate in straightforward professional exchanges.
4. Promptly
Example: The team should submit their weekly reports promptly.
Meaning: To act in a timely and efficient manner, often associated with professional reliability.
Usage: Best used in business and academic contexts where timely compliance is critical.
5. As Soon As You Can
Example: Let me know your availability as soon as you can.
Meaning: A softer version of the original phrase, often used to accommodate the other person’s schedule.
Usage: Suitable for friendly requests or when trying to be less forceful.
6. As Quickly As Possible
Example: Please get this fixed as quickly as possible.
Meaning: A slightly more emphatic variation that stresses speed and urgency.
Usage: Can be used in both formal and informal settings to highlight the need for immediate attention.
7. Immediately
Example: The security team must respond immediately.
Meaning: Suggests action should be taken now, without any delay.
Usage: Strong and direct; often used in emergencies or high-stakes situations.
8. At Once
Example: Bring the documents to my office at once.
Meaning: Implies urgency with a slight authoritative tone.
Usage: Often used in instructions or commands when something must be done without waiting.
9. Urgently
Example: We need your feedback urgently to finalize the report.
Meaning: Highlights the critical nature of the task and the need for swift action.
Usage: Useful in time-sensitive work environments and when prioritizing important tasks.
10. Posthaste
Example: Get the contract signed and returned posthaste.
Meaning: An old-fashioned yet vivid way to say “very quickly.”
Usage: Though less common, it adds flair and a slightly formal tone in professional writing or dialogue.
11. Instantly
Example: The software updates should be installed instantly upon release.
Meaning: Indicates no time lapse between the request and action.
Usage: Often used in technical or automated contexts, but also effective in direct instructions.
12. Stat
Example: The doctor requested the patient’s bloodwork stat.
Meaning: Derived from medical terminology, it means “immediately” or “without delay.”
Usage: Most often used in medical or emergency contexts, but sometimes appears in casual language to convey intense urgency.
13. Straightaway
Example: I’ll get on that straightaway.
Meaning: A British English term that means “immediately” or “without hesitation.”
Usage: Adds a polished and professional tone, especially useful in formal correspondence or polite conversation.
14. In a Timely Manner
Example: Please address the concerns in a timely manner.
Meaning: Emphasizes completing a task within an appropriate time frame without necessarily implying extreme urgency.
Usage: Common in business and academic contexts where timeliness is expected, but not pressured.
15. Pronto
Example: I need those files on my desk, pronto.
Meaning: A casual and slightly playful way of saying “right now.”
Usage: Often heard in informal speech, especially in North American English.
16. This Instant
Example: Get down here this instant!
Meaning: A highly urgent phrase that signals zero tolerance for delay.
Usage: Commonly used in commands, particularly when conveying frustration or urgency.
17. As Fast As You Can
Example: Please get to the meeting as fast as you can.
Meaning: A flexible phrase that allows for urgency while still acknowledging potential limitations.
Usage: Works in both informal and slightly formal situations depending on tone.
18. Without Further Delay
Example: Let’s proceed to the vote without further delay.
Meaning: Encourages immediate action, especially when something has already been held up.
Usage: Suitable in meetings, official emails, or public speaking to suggest prompt continuation.
19. Like Yesterday
Example: We need that new design like yesterday.
Meaning: A humorous exaggeration indicating that something is already overdue.
Usage: Informal and often used for dramatic effect in everyday conversation or casual business settings.
20. Swiftly
Example: Management acted swiftly to resolve the issue.
Meaning: Describes prompt and efficient action.
Usage: Ideal for formal writing or narratives that value precision and speed.
21. With All Due Speed
Example: The board has instructed the team to complete the review with all due speed.
Meaning: A formal expression indicating that something should be done quickly, but with care.
Usage: Appropriate for legal, corporate, or diplomatic communication.
22. Now
Example: Stop what you’re doing and come here now.
Meaning: The most direct and urgent word to indicate immediate action.
Usage: Best used when you need results right away, whether in emergencies or strict directives.
When to Use Different “As Soon As Possible” Alternatives
In Professional Settings
When writing formal emails or assigning tasks in a business context, clarity and courtesy matter. Phrases like “at your earliest convenience,” “in a timely manner,” or “with all due speed” offer professionalism while still expressing urgency without sounding abrasive or overly demanding.
In Everyday Conversations
Casual exchanges with friends, family, or coworkers may call for less formal phrasing. Saying “right away,” “as quickly as you can,” or “pronto” works just fine, especially when you want to sound approachable and relaxed while still communicating that time is a factor.
In Academic or Instructional Contexts
Whether you’re giving directions in a classroom or writing educational material, it’s useful to lean on terms like “promptly,” “without delay,” or “in a timely manner” to convey a respectful but clear expectation for urgency.
Conclusion
The phrase “as soon as possible” is certainly effective, but its frequent use can sometimes make your communication feel repetitive or vague. Fortunately, there are many alternatives available, each offering its own unique tone—from courteous to commanding, from formal to casual. By choosing the right variation, you ensure your message not only communicates urgency but also matches the situation and the relationship with your audience.
FAQs
What does “as soon as possible” mean?
It means doing something without unnecessary delay, usually implying it should be done quickly and with priority.
Is “as soon as possible” formal or informal?
It’s neutral and can be used in both formal and informal settings. However, alternatives may better suit different tones or levels of urgency.
Can “promptly” and “as soon as possible” be used interchangeably?
Yes, in many contexts, but “promptly” often conveys a slightly more professional tone and a clearer expectation for timeliness.
What is a polite way to say “as soon as possible”?
“At your earliest convenience” is a polite and respectful alternative often used in formal emails and business communication.
Which alternative shows the most urgency?
Phrases like “now,” “immediately,” or “this instant” express the highest degree of urgency and leave no room for delay.
