adjective
fast paced
fast PAYST
Fast paced (adjective) means moving or happening quickly, with events following one another in rapid succession. Example: “It's a fast-paced thriller you'll finish in a weekend.”
adjective
1
Moving or happening quickly, with events following one another in rapid succession.
"It's a fast-paced thriller you'll finish in a weekend."
"The first half was fast-paced and full of chances."
2
Of a workplace or industry: demanding, high-pressure and constantly busy.
"We're looking for someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment."
How to use fast paced
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishEverything happens quickly.
When to use it
Neutral; near-obligatory in job adverts and book and film reviews, to the point of cliché.
Memory tip
'High-paced' is not standard English; use fast-paced or high-pressure.
Easily confused with
high-paced
slow-paced
fast-moving
Common pairings
fast-paced environment
fast-paced thriller
fast-paced world
fast-paced industry
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Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for fast paced
See all rhymes for fast paced →Frequently asked questions
What does 'fast-paced environment' mean in a job advert?
Literally, that priorities shift often and work arrives quickly. In practice it is frequently code for heavy workloads, short deadlines and understaffing, so it is worth asking at interview what a typical week actually looks like.
Is it fast-paced or fast paced?
Hyphenate it before a noun — a fast-paced novel. Most style guides keep the hyphen after the verb too, since 'fast' modifies 'paced' rather than the noun.
What is the meaning of fast paced?
"fast paced" (adjective) means moving or happening quickly, with events following one another in rapid succession.
What is another word for fast paced?
Other words for "fast paced" include rapid, brisk, quick-moving, breakneck, hectic, high-pressure.
