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hasten

accelerate / hurry / rush / expedite
Transitive VerbIntransitive Verb
past: hastenedpp: hasteneding: hastening

This word carries a sense of urgency and acceleration, often implying a purposeful drive toward a conclusion or destination. It is more formal than hurry and suggests a deliberate increase in speed to achieve a specific result or to avoid a delay. When used transitively to describe an event, it suggests an external force acting as a catalyst to trigger a result prematurely. When used intransitively, it describes the physical act of rushing toward a goal, often conveying a feeling of eagerness or anxiety.

Meanings

Transitive Verb
[~ something]

To make something happen sooner or more quickly than it would otherwise occur.

"The new government policy is designed to hasten the recovery of the economy."

Intransitive Verb
[~][~ to something]

To move or travel quickly toward a specific destination or goal.

"The children hastened to the door when they heard the ice cream truck."

Transitive Verb
[~ someone]

To cause someone to move more quickly or to hurry them along.

"The ringing bell hastened the students toward the assembly hall."

Transitive Verb
[~ someone to do something]

To urge someone to act or move more quickly.

"The urgent deadline hastened the team to complete the report by Friday."

Related Words

Last Updated: June 14, 2026Report an Error