Early vs. Fast vs. Quickly – English Vocabulary Lesson

What is the Difference?

Welcome to NJCLT's English vocabulary lesson on the differences between "early," "fast," and "quickly." These three words have similar meanings but are used in different contexts. Understanding their distinctions is crucial for effective communication in English.

Using "Early" Correctly

The word "early" primarily refers to time. It describes something happening before the expected or usual time. For example, "I wake up early every morning." In this sentence, "early" indicates waking up before the expected waking time. Additionally, "early" can also imply something happening at the beginning of a process, such as "He made an early start on his project."

Mastering "Fast" in English

Unlike "early," "fast" refers to speed or the rate of doing something. It describes the ability to complete a task or cover a distance quickly. For instance, "She is a fast runner" implies that she can run at a high speed. "Fast" can also mean "quickly" when describing the speed of an action, such as "The car drove fast along the highway."

The Versatility of "Quickly"

"Quickly" is an adverb derived from the adjective "quick." It emphasizes an action happening in a short period or without delay. It refers to the speed at which a task or action is performed. For example, "He quickly solved the equation" indicates the rapidity with which the equation was solved. "Quickly" can be used to modify verbs to convey the swiftness of an action.

Examples for Clarity

Using "Early"

• "We have an early meeting tomorrow at 7 am."
• "I finished my work early and left the office."
• "The early bird catches the worm."

Mastering "Fast"

• "She completed the race in record time - she's very fast."
• "The roller coaster is known for its fast speed."
• "We need a fast solution to this problem."

The Swiftness of "Quickly"

• "He quickly responded to the email, showing his efficiency."
• "The chef quickly prepared a delicious meal."
• "I need to finish this report quickly."

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding the differences between "early," "fast," and "quickly" in English is essential. "Early" relates to time, "fast" relates to speed or rate, and "quickly" emphasizes the speed of an action. Mastering these distinctions will help you communicate more precisely and effectively in English. Practice using these words in various contexts to solidify your understanding.