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adj B2 Upper-Intermediate

punctual

PUHNGKT-yoorl

Punctual (adj) means arriving or acting exactly at the expected or agreed time. Example: “She is always punctual for meetings.”

adj
1
Arriving or acting exactly at the expected or agreed time.
"She is always punctual for meetings."
"The train service prides itself on being punctual."

How to use punctual

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishOn time, not late.

Easily confused with
Common pairings
punctual arrival be punctual

Word forms

more punctual comparative, most punctual superlative

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She is always _____ for meetings.

Etymology

From Medieval Latin punctualis, "relating to a point," from Latin punctus, "point."

Origin: Medieval Latin

Related words

Rhymes for punctual

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Frequently asked questions

What does “punctual” mean?

The word “punctual” means arriving or acting exactly at the expected or agreed time. In plain terms, on time, not late.

How do you pronounce “punctual”?

“Punctual” is pronounced PUHNGKT-yoorl (/ˈpʌŋkt͡ʃuəl/ in IPA).

How do you use “punctual” in a sentence?

Here is “punctual” used in a sentence: “She is always punctual for meetings.”

What is another word for “punctual”?

Words with a similar meaning to “punctual” include in time, on time, prompt, seasonable and timely.

What is the opposite of “punctual”?

The opposite of “punctual” — its antonyms — are overdue and premature.

What part of speech is “punctual”?

“Punctual” is an adjective.

Where does the word “punctual” come from?

The word “punctual” comes from Medieval Latin. From Medieval Latin punctualis, "relating to a point," from Latin punctus, "point.".

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