Words / B2

HAYST/heɪst/

Haste is speed, often too much (usually uncountable): in their haste; more haste, less speed. Hurry is the everyday verb/noun (already in the dictionary). Hasty is the adjective (separate headword). In their haste they released the wrong file. Do not use haste for a well-planned sprint.

Meaning

Speed in doing something, often too much speed.

Examples

• “In their haste to publish, the trust released the wrong grade file.”
• “More haste, less speed, the invigilator muttered, which is the proverb.”

Good to know

in someone’s haste to; haste makes waste. Adjective: hasty. Everyday: hurry. Uncountable. Often critical. Admin errors and proverbs.

Near in meaning

hurry

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