adverb
Uncommon
ASAP
AY-sap or ay-ess-ay-PEE
ASAP (adverb) means As quickly as circumstances allow; without any avoidable delay. Example: “Can you send me the signed copy ASAP?”
adverb
1
informal As quickly as circumstances allow; without any avoidable delay.
"Can you send me the signed copy ASAP?"
"We need a decision asap, ideally before the meeting closes."
adjective
1
informal Requiring the fastest possible action.
"Mark it as an ASAP job so the workshop sees it first."
How to use ASAP
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishAs fast as you can manage.
When to use it
Fine in email, chat and speech, but too casual for formal letters and contracts, where 'as soon as reasonably practicable' or a stated deadline is clearer.
Memory tip
ASAP sounds pressing, so pair it with a real time if the deadline matters: 'ASAP, and no later than Friday'.
Trace the full origin ↓
Easily confused with
ASAP vs. immediately
AFAIK
Common pairings
need it ASAP
reply ASAP
get back to me ASAP
as soon as possible
Vocabulary Flow
Build your vocabulary from words like ASAP.
Vocabulary Flow serves the next word, and the next — meaning, pronunciation and an example each time. Practice at your level, or learn English in your own language.
Start vocabulary practice
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Can you send me the signed copy _____?
Etymology
An initialism of as soon as possible.
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Frequently asked questions
What does ASAP stand for?
It stands for 'as soon as possible'. It can be said as a word, AY-sap, or spelled out letter by letter, and both are accepted.
Is ASAP rude in an email?
It can read as pushy, because it presses for speed without acknowledging the other person's workload. Naming an actual deadline and a reason is usually received better, for example 'by 3pm today so I can send the report'.
What is the meaning of ASAP?
"ASAP" (adverb) means as quickly as circumstances allow; without any avoidable delay.
What is another word for ASAP?
Other words for "ASAP" include immediately, urgently, right away, promptly, at once, urgent.
Featured in
Vocabulary lists that include ASAP:
