as soon as possible — At the earliest time that it is possible; without any delay
Part of speech: ADVERB
Definition: At the earliest time that it is possible; without any delay
Pronunciation (IPA): /æz sun æz ˈpɑsəbl/
Example Sentences
- My boss wants the coffee machine fixed as soon as possible - apparently his productivity depends on caffeine levels.
- Please submit your assignment as soon as possible.
- The doctor said to take the medicine as soon as possible for best results.
as soon as possible
ADVERB[/æz sun æz ˈpɑsəbl/]
At the earliest time that it is possible; without any delay
She needs the report as soon as possible — the client is waiting.
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
This phrase combines three etymologically distinct elements: 'as' derives from Old English 'eallswa' (just as, equally); 'soon' comes from Old English 'sōna' (immediately, at once); and 'possible' stems from Latin 'possibilis' (able to be done), formed from 'posse' (to be able) and the suffix '-ibilis' (capable of). The phrase crystallized in Middle English as a formulaic expression for urgency.
Breakdown
as (from Old English eallswa, comparative conjunction) + soon (from Old English sōna, adverb meaning immediately) + as (comparative conjunction) + possible (from Latin possibilis: posse (be able) + -ibilis (capable of being)). The structure uses 'as...as' construction (comparative frame) with 'soon' and 'possible' as the comparative terms.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“My boss wants the coffee machine fixed as soon as possible - apparently his productivity depends on caffeine levels.”
“Please submit your assignment as soon as possible.”
“The doctor said to take the medicine as soon as possible for best results.”
“I need to find my keys as soon as possible - my pizza delivery is getting cold!”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
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