prompt
To cause or encourage an action or response
Examples
In a meeting
“The customer complaint prompted us to review our return policy.”
Over coffee
“Your question prompted me to rethink my whole approach.”
Why this word
quick
prompt emphasizes immediacy without delay, while quick only refers to speed
fast
prompt implies timeliness and appropriateness of timing, not just rapidity
immediate
prompt suggests readiness and punctuality, while immediate is less nuanced about responsiveness
Usage tip
Use when something causes or inspires action or thought. Can refer to external triggers or internal motivation.
Etymology
Latin 'promptus' meaning brought forth, ready, from 'promere' (to bring out)
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Related words
incentivize
Motivate someone by offering rewards or benefits
galvanize
To shock or excite someone into taking action
ascribe
To attribute something to a particular cause or source
incentive
A motivating factor or reward that encourages action
attribute
To identify something as being caused by or belonging to a particular source
precipitate
To cause something to happen suddenly or sooner than expected