What is rapid? Pronunciation and usage in English

rapid means . Learn how to pronounce and use rapid through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of rapid

rapidadjective

/ˈrapɪd/
Definition & pronunciation of rapid

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "rapid." It's a tricky one for many English learners! Here's a breakdown:

The most common and accepted pronunciation is:

  • /ˈreɪpɪd/ (stress on the first syllable)

Let's break it down further:

  • re-: Pronounced like the "re" in "red." A short, quick sound.
  • -ap-: This is the tricky part! It's pronounced like "ah" as in "father." (Not like "apple").
  • -id: Pronounced like "ih" as in "bit."

Putting it all together:

Say it slowly: “Reh-puh-id”

Here's a helpful breakdown using sounds:

  • IPA (International Phonetic Alphabet): /ˈreɪpɪd/

Resources to hear it:

  • Google Translate: Type "rapid" into Google Translate and click the speaker icon.
  • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/rapid/ – This website has pronunciations by native speakers.

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Saying "rap-id" – This is a very common mistake! The "a" in "rapid" is not the same as the "a" in "rap."
  • Adding an extra syllable: Don't say "ra-pid-ee."

To help me tailor the explanation further, could you tell me:

  • Are you a beginner or do you have some existing English pronunciation skills?

Usage and examples with the word rapid in English

Let's break down how to use the word "rapid" in English. It's a versatile word with a few different meanings and usages. Here's a detailed explanation:

1. As an Adjective – Meaning “Fast” or “Quick”

This is the most common usage. "Rapid" describes something that happens or moves quickly.

  • Examples:
    • “The train traveled at a rapid speed.” (Fast train)
    • “She gave a rapid answer.” (Quick answer)
    • “The news spread rapidly through the town.” (Quickly spread)
    • "A rapid growth in popularity" (Quick growth)

2. As an Adjective – Meaning “Steep” or “Inclined”

This refers to a slope or grade that's very steep.

  • Examples:
    • “The rapid descent of the mountain was breathtaking.” (Steep slope)
    • “The road had a rapid incline.” (Steep upward slope)

3. As an Adjective - Describing Change or Development (Often with "Rate")

This usage describes a quick or dramatic change or increase. It's often paired with "rate" or "pace."

  • Examples:
    • “There has been a rapid increase in internet usage.” (Quick increase)
    • “The company’s rapid rate of growth surprised everyone.” (Quick pace of growth)
    • “A rapid development in technology…” (Quick development)

4. As a Noun – Referring to a Watercourse or Stream

This describes a small, swift-flowing stream or river.

  • Examples:
    • “They paddled down the rapid.” (Swift stream)
    • “The kayakers navigated the dangerous rapids.” (Dangerous, swift streams)

Key Considerations & Related Words

  • Phrases: "Rapid fire" (spoken quickly) is a common idiom. "Rapid change" signifies a quick and significant alteration.
  • Synonyms: Depending on the context, you could use words like: fast, quick, swift, immediate, sudden, brisk, accelerated.
  • Comparative & Superlative:
    • Faster (comparative) – “The river flowed faster than expected.”
    • Fastest (superlative) – “It was the fastest mode of transport.”

How to Choose the Right Usage

Think about the context! What are you describing? Is it speed, a slope, or a stream?

Let's test your understanding. Can you use "rapid" in a sentence to describe the following?

  1. A computer program: __________
  2. A hillside: __________
  3. The spread of a disease: __________

Do you want me to:

  • Give you more examples of how to use "rapid"?
  • Focus on a specific usage (e.g., only as an adjective meaning "fast")?
  • Help you practice using "rapid" in sentences?

Synonyms for the word rapid

Practice with vocabulary rapid

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The company experienced a _______ expansion in its global market share last quarter.
  2. Investors are concerned about the _______ decline in stock prices, which started unexpectedly this morning.
  3. His _______ understanding of the complex algorithm allowed him to solve the problem efficiently.
  4. Due to the tight deadline, a _______ response to the client's inquiry is essential.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. Which of the following words best describes a significant increase happening in a short amount of time? a) gradual b) steady c) rapid d) slow

  2. The project manager required a _______ assessment of the risks involved before proceeding. a) quick b) swift c) rapid d) lengthy

  3. Despite the challenging economic climate, the startup achieved _______ growth in its user base. a) deliberate b) rapid c) measured d) stagnant

  4. The meteorologist predicted an _______ shift in weather patterns, from clear skies to heavy rain within hours. a) abrupt b) gradual c) prolonged d) anticipated

  5. Employees are expected to submit their reports with _______ attention to detail. a) meticulous b) casual c) superficial d) careless

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The company's market value increased incredibly quickly over the last fiscal year. (Rewrite using "rapid" or a related word form.)
  2. Due to the urgent need, a very fast deployment of resources was necessary. (Rewrite using "rapid" or a related word form.)
  3. The team needs to address these issues immediately and without delay. (Rewrite the sentence without using "rapid", but using a suitable replacement word.)

Answer:

Exercise 1:

  1. rapid
  2. rapid
  3. thorough (or profound/comprehensive)
  4. prompt (or immediate/swift)

Exercise 2:

  1. c) rapid
  2. a) quick, b) swift, c) rapid
  3. b) rapid
  4. a) abrupt
  5. a) meticulous

Exercise 3:

  1. There was a rapid increase in the company's market value over the last fiscal year.
  2. Resources needed to be deployed rapidly due to the urgent need.
  3. The team needs to address these issues swiftly.

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