asap

asap — abbreviation

1. used in messages to say that something should be done at the earliest practical

1.abbreviationB1
Definition

used in messages to say that something should be done at the earliest practical time, with no unnecessary waiting.

Example

Please send the signed form back ASAP so we can book your seat.

ASAP at end of an email request

The nurse asked Daniel to call the clinic ASAP about his test.

verb + ASAP after instruction

Common collocations
  • reply ASAP
  • call ASAP
  • send it ASAP
  • finish ASAP
  • need it ASAP
Synonyms
  • immediately

    stronger and more direct; common in speech and writing

  • right away

    very common in everyday spoken English

  • promptly

    more formal; common in service or workplace contexts

  • without delay

    formal and often used in notices or instructions

Antonyms
  • later

    shows there is no need for quick action

  • eventually

    suggests something will happen after some time

Grammar Patterns

verb + ASAP

ASAP at end of request

need + something + ASAP

Usage Note

Mostly written in capital letters and far more common in emails, texts, notes, and workplace chat than in formal writing. It usually comes after the main verb or at the end of the request: 'call ASAP', 'send it ASAP'.

Common Mistakes

Please ASAP send the photos.
Please send the photos ASAP.
ASAP usually comes after the main verb or at the end of the request.
The report is ASAP.
Please finish the report ASAP.
ASAP modifies an action that should happen quickly, not the thing itself.

Synonym discussion

Sense: abbreviation/1

All five push for quick action, but they differ in tone and setting. 'ASAP' is the informal shorthand you often see in emails, texts, workplace chat, and quick notes. It feels direct, but not always harsh. 'Immediately' is stronger and can sound urgent, strict, or even angry, especially in speech. 'Right away' is warm, everyday spoken English. 'Promptly' is more formal and often appears in customer service, office writing, or instructions. 'Without delay' sounds the most official and is common in notices or legal-style language. A manager may write 'send the file ASAP', a parent may say 'come here right away', and a sign may order drivers to move their cars 'without delay'.

ASAP ↗immediately ↗right awaypromptlywithout delay

Common collocations

Nouns

  • ASAP response
  • ASAP delivery
  • ASAP booking

Phrases

  • please reply ASAP
  • call me ASAP
  • send it ASAP
  • need it ASAP

Etymology

English

'ASAP' is an English initialism made from the first letters of a common phrase meaning 'at the earliest practical time'. It began as a quick written shortcut in office and military communication, where space and speed mattered. Later it spread into email, texting, and workplace chat, and many speakers now also say it aloud as 'AY-sap'.