fast
When used as an adverb to mean "at high speed," do not use the word "fastly." The word "fast" serves as both the adjective and the adverb. Be careful with the meaning of "fixed securely." While common in phrases like "hold fast," it is less frequent in everyday conversation than the meaning related to speed. When using "fast" as a verb, it usually refers to religious practices or medical requirements. In these cases, it describes the act of not eating.
💬Casual Conversation
🎬Tuesday afternoon, Sarah is at her desk while David is in a meeting.
David Smith
Can you pivot those mockups and get them to me fast? Need them for the sync.
Sarah
I'm already underwater with the branding project. You'll have to wait.
💡
David uses corporate jargon ('pivot', 'sync') and requests speed using 'fast'. Sarah responds with the idiom 'underwater', meaning she is overwhelmed by too much work, highlighting their strained manager-subordinate dynamic.
Meanings
verb (intransitive)
To abstain from all or some kinds of food or drink, especially as a religious observance.
"Many people fast during the month of Ramadan."