35+ Other Ways to Say Hurry | Match Every Tone and Situation In 2026

Quick Answer:
Other ways to say hurry include phrases like move quickly, make haste, step on it, get a move on, and pick up the pace. These expressions range from very formal to highly casual, and the right choice depends on your audience, setting, and how urgent the situation actually is.

The five best alternatives are please expedite this, kindly move quickly, we need to act fast, let us pick up the pace, and step on it.

Looking for other ways to say “hurry”? Whether you’re writing an email, encouraging someone to move faster, or asking for quick action politely, using different expressions can make your communication sound more natural and appropriate. This guide shares 35+ Other Ways to Say Hurry with meanings, examples, and the best situations to use each one.

Search Intent Behind Other Ways to Say Hurry

What Users Are Looking For

People searching for alternatives to hurry are usually trying to solve one of two problems. Either they feel their writing sounds too plain and repetitive, or they are unsure whether the word hurry fits a specific tone, such as a business email, a job interview, or a text message to a friend. Most searchers want ready to use phrases they can copy directly into a conversation or document without having to think too hard about grammar or context.

Why People Search This Phrase

The phrase other ways to say hurry is searched heavily by English learners, content writers, students preparing for speaking tests, and professionals who want to sound polished in emails and meetings. Native speakers also search this phrase when they want fresh vocabulary for creative writing, scripts, or social media captions.

Spoken vs Written Usage

Spoken English tends to favor short, punchy alternatives like step on it, get a move on, or chop chop. These sound natural face to face but can feel too casual or even blunt in writing. Written English, especially in emails and reports, leans toward smoother, more measured expressions such as at your earliest convenience, please expedite, or time sensitive matter.

Formal vs Informal Communication Intent

Formal communication usually avoids direct commands and softens urgency with polite phrasing, for example we would appreciate a prompt response. Informal communication is more direct and often uses short commands, such as hurry up or let us go, because the relationship between speakers allows for that directness without sounding rude.

Tone Ladder System for Hurry Alternatives

Understanding tone is the fastest way to avoid sounding awkward. Below is a simple ladder from the most formal expressions to the most casual ones.

Very Formal

Phrases like kindly expedite the process or we request immediate attention belong here. These are used in official letters, legal correspondence, and high level business communication.

Formal

Expressions such as please proceed promptly or we would appreciate a quick response fit professional emails, client communication, and workplace requests where politeness still matters but the tone is slightly less rigid than very formal language.

Neutral

Phrases like please hurry, act quickly, or move fast are neutral. They work in almost any setting, from customer service replies to everyday work conversations, without leaning too formal or too casual.

Casual

Everyday spoken options such as get a move on, speed it up, or let us get going are common between colleagues, classmates, and acquaintances.

Informal

Very relaxed expressions like step on it, chop chop, or hustle up belong to close friendships, family conversations, or casual social settings. Using these in a professional context can come across as disrespectful.

Formal phrases sound more professional because they soften the urgency with polite structure instead of direct commands. For spoken English, neutral and casual phrases work best because they sound natural and are easy to say quickly. For writing, formal and neutral expressions are safer because they maintain professionalism even under pressure.

Tone Classification Table

Quick Selection Guide

Choosing the right phrase becomes instant once you know the setting.

Interview

Use we should move quickly on this or time is of the essence to show urgency while staying professional.

Email

Use please expedite this request or kindly respond at your earliest convenience for a polished, formal tone.

Networking

Use let us follow up soon or I do not want to rush you, but timing matters here for a friendly yet purposeful tone.

Casual Conversation

Use get a move on or hurry it up for a natural, relaxed exchange between friends or family.

Real Life Conversation Transformations

Job Interview Scenario

Before: We need to hurry and finish this project by Friday. After: We are working to complete this project by Friday, so timely execution is a priority for the team.

Networking Event Scenario

Before: Sorry, I have to hurry, my next meeting starts soon. After: I would love to continue this conversation, but I have another commitment starting shortly. Could we exchange contacts and follow up soon.

Email Scenario

Before: Please hurry and send the report. After: Could you please expedite the report and share it with us at your earliest convenience.

Casual Conversation Scenario

Before: Hurry up, we are going to be late. After: Come on, let us pick up the pace, we are cutting it close on time.

35+ Other Ways to Say Hurry

1. Move Quickly

Meaning: To act or travel at a fast pace.

Explanation: A neutral, universally understood phrase suitable for instructions and everyday requests.

Example: Please move quickly; the store closes in ten minutes.

Tone: Neutral (5.5/10)

Best Use:

• Everyday instructions
• Workplace requests
• General conversations

Worst Use:

• Very formal legal or contractual writing

Context Variability: Works naturally in both spoken and written English.

2. Make Haste

Meaning: An older, elegant way of telling someone to hurry.

Explanation: This phrase has a literary, historical feel, making it ideal for storytelling, historical fiction, or dramatic writing rather than modern conversation.

Example: The messenger was told to make haste and deliver the news before nightfall.

Tone: Very Formal (8.5/10)

Best Use:

• Literature
• Historical writing
• Dramatic storytelling

Worst Use:

• Casual texting
• Everyday conversations

Context Variability: Almost exclusively written and rarely spoken today.

3. Step on It

Meaning: A casual command to go faster.

Explanation: Often associated with driving, this energetic expression encourages someone to increase speed immediately.

Example: Step on it we’re going to miss the flight.

Tone: Informal (3.5/10)

Best Use:

• Driving situations
• Friends and family
• Urgent casual moments

Worst Use:

• Professional emails
• Client meetings

Context Variability: Primarily spoken English.

4. Get a Move On

Meaning: To start moving or acting faster.

Explanation: A common idiom used in British and everyday English to encourage someone to hurry without sounding overly harsh.

Example: Get a move on; the guests will arrive any minute.

Tone: Casual (4.5/10)

Best Use:

• Family conversations
• Informal workplaces
• Friendly reminders

Worst Use:

• Client-facing communication

Context Variability: Mostly spoken, with occasional use in casual writing.

5. Pick Up the Pace

Meaning: To increase speed or effort.

Explanation: Suitable for both physical activities and workplace productivity, making it one of the most versatile alternatives.

Example: We need to pick up the pace if we want to finish before the deadline.

Tone: Neutral (6/10)

Best Use:

• Team meetings
• Coaching
• Project management
• Sports

Worst Use:

• Formal legal communication

Context Variability: Common in both spoken and written English.

Group 2

6. Hustle Up

Meaning: To move or work with energetic speed.

Explanation: A lively expression often heard in sports, warehouses, restaurants, and fast-paced workplaces.

Example: Hustle up, everyone! The truck will be loaded in five minutes.

Tone: Informal (3.5/10)

Best Use:

• Sports
• Warehouses
• Fast-paced workplaces

Worst Use:

• Business writing

Context Variability: Mostly spoken English.

7. Speed It Up

Meaning: A direct request to do something faster.

Explanation: Straightforward and easy to understand, making it useful for quick instructions.

Example: Can you speed it up a little? We’re running behind schedule.

Tone: Casual (4.5/10)

Best Use:

• Workplace conversations
• Team instructions
• Everyday requests

Worst Use:

• First-time client communication

Context Variability: Spoken English and informal written messages.

8. Chop Chop

Meaning: A playful way to tell someone to hurry.

Explanation: Informal and slightly old-fashioned, this phrase adds humor while expressing urgency.

Example: Chop chop! The taxi is waiting outside.

Tone: Informal (3/10)

Best Use:

• Friends
• Family
• Playful conversations

Worst Use:

• Professional settings

Context Variability: Strictly spoken and informal.

9. Time Is of the Essence

Meaning: Time is extremely important.

Explanation: A classic business and legal expression emphasizing that immediate action is necessary.

Example: Please review the contract soon, as time is of the essence.

Tone: Formal (8/10)

Best Use:

• Legal documents
• Business communication
• Official notices

Worst Use:

• Casual conversations

Context Variability: Common in formal writing and professional speech.

10. We Need to Act Fast

Meaning: Quick action is required.

Explanation: A clear and professional statement that creates urgency without sounding dramatic.

Example: We need to act fast before the offer expires.

Tone: Neutral (6/10)

Best Use:

• Team discussions
• Business decisions
• Workplace communication

Worst Use:

• Relaxed social conversations

Context Variability: Works well in spoken and written English.

Group 3

11. Please Expedite

Meaning: A formal request to complete something more quickly.

Explanation: Frequently used in professional emails and customer service when asking someone to prioritize a task.

Example: Please expedite the shipment, as the client needs it by Monday.

Tone: Very Formal (9/10)

Best Use:

• Business emails
• Official requests
• Customer service

Worst Use:

• Casual conversations

Context Variability: Primarily written professional English.

12. Kindly Move Quickly

Meaning: A polite request to hurry.

Explanation: The word kindly softens the urgency and makes the request sound respectful.

Example: Kindly move quickly on this matter, as the deadline is approaching.

Tone: Formal (7.5/10)

Best Use:

• Professional emails
• Client communication
• Formal meetings

Worst Use:

• Informal texting

Context Variability: Mostly written English.

13. Let Us Get Going

Meaning: A suggestion to begin moving or leave.

Explanation: Friendly and conversational, making it ideal for groups preparing to leave together.

Example: Let’s get going the movie starts in twenty minutes.

Tone: Casual (4.5/10)

Best Use:

• Family outings
• Trips
• Group activities

Worst Use:

• Formal business writing

Context Variability: Mostly spoken English.

14. Do Not Dawdle

Meaning: Don’t waste time by moving slowly.

Explanation: Slightly old-fashioned but still widely understood, especially in family or classroom settings.

Example: Do not dawdle we need to leave in five minutes.

Tone: Neutral (5.5/10)

Best Use:

• Parenting
• Teaching
• Friendly reminders

Worst Use:

• Corporate emails

Context Variability: Mostly spoken English.

15. Get a Wiggle On

Meaning: A playful expression meaning to hurry.

Explanation: A charming British idiom that sounds humorous and lighthearted.

Example: Get a wiggle on the bus leaves in two minutes.

Tone: Informal (3/10)

Best Use:

• Friendly conversations
• Family
• British English

Worst Use:

• Professional communication

Context Variability: Spoken English, especially British English.

Group 4

16. We Would Appreciate a Prompt Response

Meaning: A polite request for someone to respond quickly.

Explanation: A common closing sentence in professional emails that expresses urgency while remaining courteous.

Example: We would appreciate a prompt response so we can proceed with the next steps.

Tone: Very Formal (9/10)

Best Use:

• Business emails
• Client communication
• Official correspondence

Worst Use:

• Casual conversations

Context Variability: Primarily written English.

17. On the Double

Meaning: Do it immediately.

Explanation: Originally a military expression, it conveys strong urgency.

Example: Get those supplies loaded on the double.

Tone: Informal (3/10)

Best Use:

• Urgent workplace situations
• Military contexts
• Sports

Worst Use:

• Professional client communication

Context Variability: Mostly spoken English.

18. Without Delay

Meaning: Immediately, without waiting.

Explanation: A precise and formal phrase commonly used in legal and administrative writing.

Example: Please submit the documents without delay.

Tone: Formal (8/10)

Best Use:

• Official notices
• Administrative communication
• Legal documents

Worst Use:

• Casual speech

Context Variability: Mostly written English.

19. Get Cracking

Meaning: Begin working quickly and energetically.

Explanation: A motivating expression that encourages immediate action.

Example: Let’s get cracking on this project we don’t have much time left.

Tone: Casual (4/10)

Best Use:

• Teamwork
• Informal workplaces
• Friends

Worst Use:

• Client emails

Context Variability: Mostly spoken English.

20. Snap to It

Meaning: Act immediately.

Explanation: A direct, energetic command usually given by someone in charge.

Example: Snap to it, everyone we open in ten minutes.

Tone: Informal (3/10)

Best Use:

• Fast-paced workplaces
• Sports
• Team leadership

Worst Use:

• Formal business interactions

Context Variability: Spoken English only.

Group 5

21. We Need This Handled Urgently

Meaning: A professional statement indicating immediate action is required.

Explanation: Clear, direct, and workplace-friendly without sounding overly formal.

Example: We need this handled urgently, as the client is waiting.

Tone: Neutral (6.5/10)

Best Use:

• Workplace communication
• Project management
• Team discussions

Worst Use:

• Formal legal documents

Context Variability: Spoken and written professional English.

22. Let Us Not Waste Time

Meaning: Begin immediately without delay.

Explanation: A practical phrase used to redirect attention to the task.

Example: Let’s not waste time and start the meeting now.

Tone: Neutral (6/10)

Best Use:

• Meetings
• Group discussions
• Workplace settings

Worst Use:

• Relaxed social conversations

Context Variability: Common in spoken and written English.

23. Hurry It Along

Meaning: Make something move faster.

Explanation: Slightly gentler than simply saying hurry up, often referring to a task rather than a person.

Example: Can you hurry it along? The guests are already here.

Tone: Casual (4.5/10)

Best Use:

• Everyday conversations
• Coworkers
• Family

Worst Use:

• Formal writing

Context Variability: Mostly spoken English.

24. Faster, Please

Meaning: A polite request to increase speed.

Explanation: Short, direct, and softened by please.

Example: Faster, please we’re almost out of time.

Tone: Neutral (5/10)

Best Use:

• Coaching
• Service settings
• Instructions

Worst Use:

• Formal correspondence

Context Variability: Primarily spoken English.

25. We Are Racing Against Time

Meaning: There is very little time left.

Explanation: A vivid expression emphasizing pressure and urgency.

Example: We’re racing against time to finish the presentation before the client arrives.

Tone: Neutral (6/10)

Best Use:

• Storytelling
• Deadline updates
• Team discussions

Worst Use:

• Legal writing

Context Variability: Common in spoken and written English.

Group 6

26. Prompt Action Is Required

Meaning: Immediate action is necessary.

Explanation: A formal statement frequently used in reports, notices, and official communication.

Example: Prompt action is required to avoid further delays.

Tone: Very Formal (9/10)

Best Use:

• Reports
• Official notices
• Business communication

Worst Use:

• Casual conversations

Context Variability: Primarily written English.

27. Let Us Wrap This Up Quickly

Meaning: Finish something as soon as possible.

Explanation: A practical workplace phrase often used near the end of meetings or projects.

Example: Let’s wrap this up quickly the next meeting starts soon.

Tone: Neutral (5.5/10)

Best Use:

• Meetings
• Team discussions
• Presentations

Worst Use:

• Formal documents

Context Variability: Mostly spoken English.

28. Fly

Meaning: Go quickly.

Explanation: A short, expressive command used only in very informal situations.

Example: Fly! The train leaves in two minutes.

Tone: Informal (2.5/10)

Best Use:

• Friends
• Family
• Urgent casual moments

Worst Use:

• Professional communication

Context Variability: Spoken English only.

29. Get Going

Meaning: Start moving.

Explanation: One of the most common and versatile alternatives for encouraging someone to leave or begin.

Example: We should get going if we want to beat the traffic.

Tone: Neutral (5/10)

Best Use:

• Everyday conversations
• Group activities
• Travel

Worst Use:

• Formal business writing

Context Variability: Common in spoken and informal written English.

30. Look Sharp

Meaning: Be alert and move quickly.

Explanation: An energetic idiom often used by leaders or supervisors.

Example: Look sharp! The manager will be here any minute.

Tone: Informal (3.5/10)

Best Use:

• Team environments
• Sports
• Casual leadership

Worst Use:

• Client communication

Context Variability: Mostly spoken English.

Group 7

31. We Cannot Afford Any Delay

Meaning: No time can be wasted.

Explanation: A serious expression used when delays could have significant consequences.

Example: We cannot afford any delay on this shipment.

Tone: Formal (8/10)

Best Use:

• High-stakes business communication
• Project deadlines
• Logistics

Worst Use:

• Casual conversations

Context Variability: Common in professional written English.

32. Get a Wriggle On

Meaning: Hurry up.

Explanation: A playful regional variation of get a wiggle on, commonly heard in British English.

Example: Get a wriggle on we’re already ten minutes late.

Tone: Informal (3/10)

Best Use:

• Friendly conversations
• British English

Worst Use:

• Professional writing

Context Variability: Regional and primarily spoken.

33. Time Is Ticking

Meaning: Time is running out.

Explanation: An expressive phrase that creates urgency without sounding overly formal.

Example: Time is ticking we need a decision by noon.

Tone: Neutral (5.5/10)

Best Use:

• Deadlines
• Meetings
• Project updates

Worst Use:

• Formal legal writing

Context Variability: Works in both spoken and written English.

34. Please Proceed Without Delay

Meaning: A polite instruction to act immediately.

Explanation: Balances urgency with courtesy, making it suitable for official communication.

Example: Please proceed without delay so we can meet the deadline.

Tone: Formal (8/10)

Best Use:

• Business emails
• Official instructions
• Workplace communication

Worst Use:

• Casual conversations

Context Variability: Primarily written English.

35. Quick, Quick

Meaning: A repeated command emphasizing urgency.

Explanation: A playful and expressive way to encourage someone to hurry immediately.

Example: Quick, quick! The light is about to change.

Tone: Informal (2.5/10)

Best Use:

• Friends
• Family
• Everyday urgent moments

Worst Use:

• Professional settings

Context Variability: Strictly spoken English.

Usage Comparison Table

Email and LinkedIn Ready Expressions

Professional messages often need urgency without sounding pushy. Here are ready to use lines for different formats.

Email Greetings With Urgency

I hope this message finds you well. I am reaching out regarding a time sensitive matter that requires your attention.

Professional Introductions

I wanted to connect quickly, as the timeline for this project is tighter than expected.

LinkedIn Connection Messages

Hi, I would love to connect. I am working on something with a fast approaching deadline and think your input could really help.

Follow Up Lines

Just following up, as we would appreciate a prompt response before the end of the week.

Native Speaker Insight

Native speakers rarely say “hurry up” in professional settings because it can sound like a command rather than a polite request. Instead, they often choose softer, more diplomatic alternatives such as:

• When you get a chance
• Could you speed this along?
• We’re a bit tight on time.
• At your earliest convenience (formal)

In casual conversations, however, shorter and more energetic expressions sound much more natural, including:

• Come on! (C’mon!)
• Let’s go!
• Step on it!
• Get a move on!

On the other hand, overly formal expressions like “Kindly expedite the process” can sound stiff or robotic when speaking with friends or close colleagues. Choosing the right phrase based on your relationship and the situation is one of the biggest differences between sounding fluent and sounding translated.

Common Mistakes and What Not to Say

Many English learners make the mistake of using “hurry up” in every situation. While it’s grammatically correct, it can sound blunt or even rude when speaking to a boss, client, customer, or someone you don’t know well.

Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Using “hurry up” in professional emails or meetings
  • ❌ Hurry up with the report.
  • ✅ Could you send the report when you get a chance?
• Mixing formal and informal language
  • ❌ Kindly step on it.
  • ✅ Please expedite the process. (formal)
  • ✅ Step on it! (informal)
• Being overly formal in everyday conversations
  • ❌ We request your immediate attention.
  • ✅ Can you speed this up a little?
• Using incorrect grammar
  • ❌ Hurry the process.
  • ✅ Expedite the process.
  • ✅ Speed up the process.
• Using commanding expressions with senior people
  • ❌ Snap to it!
  • ✅ Could you please prioritize this?

Choosing the right level of formality helps you sound more natural, respectful, and fluent.

Expansion Phrases

If you’re looking to improve your overall conversational English, these related expressions pair naturally with alternatives to “hurry up.”

Greeting Variations

• Good to connect
• Great meeting you
• Nice seeing you
• Glad we could catch up

Introduction Phrases

• Allow me to introduce myself
• I’d like to introduce…
• Let me introduce…
• It’s a pleasure to meet you

Polite Communication Alternatives

• At your earliest convenience
• When you get a chance
• Whenever you have a moment
• If possible, today

Conversational English Upgrades

Let’s keep the momentum going.

Let’s make the most of our time.

We’re running a little behind.

Let’s keep things moving.

Let’s get started.

Decision Making Table

Quick Fast List

The following are the top alternatives to hurry that work in almost any situation.

• Move quickly
• Please expedite
• Time is of the essence
• Get a move on
• Pick up the pace
• Without delay
• We need to act fast
• Step on it
• Let us get going
• Prompt action is required

Mini Quiz

Question 1

You’re writing a formal email to a client about a delayed shipment. Which phrase fits best?

A) Chop chop
B) Please expedite this shipment
C) Step on it
D) Get a wiggle on

Correct Answer: B

Explanation: “Please expedite this shipment” is the most professional and appropriate choice for client communication. The other options are informal expressions that aren’t suitable for business emails.

Question 2

You’re talking to a close friend who is running late for a movie. Which phrase fits best?

A) We request immediate attention
B) Kindly proceed without delay
C) Get a move on
D) Prompt action is required

Correct Answer: C

Explanation: “Get a move on” is a natural, casual phrase that’s perfect for friends. The other options are overly formal and sound unnatural in everyday conversation.

Question 3

You’re in a job interview discussing project timelines. Which phrase sounds most professional?

A) Hustle up
B) We should move quickly on this
C) On the double
D) Snap to it

Correct Answer: B

Explanation: “We should move quickly on this” communicates urgency in a professional, collaborative way. The other options are informal commands that aren’t appropriate in an interview.

Question 4

You’re messaging a new LinkedIn connection about a tight deadline. Which phrase fits best?

A) Quick, quick
B) I’m working on something with a fast-approaching deadline
C) Fly
D) Look sharp

Correct Answer: B

Explanation: “I’m working on something with a fast-approaching deadline” sounds professional, clear, and appropriate for networking. The other options are too casual or conversational.

FAQs

Is it polite to say “hurry up” to a coworker?

It can sound blunt or commanding, especially in professional settings. Softer alternatives like “Could you speed this along?”, “When you get a chance,” or “We’re a bit tight on time” are usually more polite and professional.

What is more professional than “hurry”?

Professional alternatives include “Please expedite,” “Act promptly,” “Prompt action is required,” and “Time is of the essence.” These expressions are commonly used in business communication and formal writing.

Can I use casual hurry alternatives in an email?

Generally, no. Avoid casual expressions like “Chop chop,” “Step on it,” or “Get a wiggle on” in professional emails. Neutral or formal alternatives create a more polished impression.

What do native speakers say instead of “hurry up”?

Native speakers often choose softer expressions based on the situation, including:

• Let’s get a move on.
• We’re running a bit tight on time.
• Could you speed this along?
• When you get a chance.
• At your earliest convenience.

What is the best alternative for “hurry” in a job interview?

Professional phrases like “We should move quickly on this,” “Time is of the essence,” or “I’d prioritize this immediately” express urgency while maintaining a confident and professional tone.

Conclusion

Learning different ways to say hurry helps you communicate urgency with the right tone for every situation, whether that is a formal email, a job interview, a networking conversation, or a casual chat with friends. Instead of repeating the same word, you now have more than 35 alternatives, organized by tone and real world use, to help you sound natural and confident.

Practice matching these phrases to your audience and setting, and pay attention to how native speakers shift tone depending on formality. With consistent use, choosing the right alternative to hurry will become second nature, and your English will sound noticeably more polished, professional, and natural.

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Zoe Chambers

Zoe Chambers works as a content writer at synoseek.com, contributing thoughtful pieces on everyday subjects and ideas. She writes in a simple, grounded way, often drawing from real-world experiences. Her focus is on keeping content natural, clear and easy for readers to connect with.