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"Rapidity" vs. "swiftness": a quick comparison

Reviewed and edited by Lloyd Cooper 17/03/2025, 07:35
English.me team member
Rapidity and swiftness. What's the difference?

What is similar?

Both "rapidity" and "swiftness" are nouns that denote the quality of being fast or quick. They both relate to high speed in movement, action, or occurrence and are often used to describe something happening quickly.

What is different?

"Rapidity" often emphasizes the rate at which something occurs or changes, highlighting the speed of a process or progression. It is frequently used in contexts involving change, development, or events unfolding quickly. "Swiftness" generally emphasizes quickness in physical movement or action, often conveying a sense of agility or ease. It is commonly associated with the speed of living beings or objects in motion.

Which one is more common?

Internet search results for rapidity) and swiftness

Examples of usage

Rapidity
  • The rapidity of technological advancements is astonishing.
  • He was surprised by the rapidity with which the events unfolded.
  • The rapidity of her decision took everyone by surprise.
Swiftness
  • The cheetah is known for its swiftness.
  • She moved with the swiftness of a dancer across the stage.
  • The swiftness of his reaction prevented an accident.

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