Top 50 Slang For Urgent – Meaning & Usage

When time is of the essence, having the right words to convey urgency can make all the difference. In this article, we’ve rounded up the top slang terms that pack a punch when you need to convey urgency. Whether you’re in a rush or just want to spice up your vocabulary, we’ve got you covered with the essential slang for urgent situations. So, buckle up and get ready to add some flair to your communication!

Click above to generate some slangs

1. ASAP

This acronym is used to indicate that something needs to be done quickly or urgently. It emphasizes the need for prompt action.

For example, a boss might say, “I need that report ASAP.”
In a text message, someone might write, “Can you pick up some groceries on your way home? ASAP!”
A teacher might tell a student, “Please submit your assignment ASAP, as the deadline is approaching.”

2. STAT

Derived from Latin “statim,” this term is commonly used in medical settings to indicate that something needs to be done immediately or urgently. It conveys a sense of urgency and importance.

For instance, a doctor might say, “We need to get this patient to the operating room STAT.”
In a fast-paced emergency room, a nurse might yell, “I need a crash cart in Room 5 STAT!”
A paramedic might radio for assistance, saying, “We have a critical patient. We need an ambulance here STAT.”

3. PDQ

An abbreviation used to convey the need for something to be done quickly or urgently. It adds a sense of emphasis and urgency to the request.

For example, a supervisor might say, “I need those reports finished PDQ.”
In a restaurant, a server might tell the kitchen, “We have a customer with a food allergy. We need a special dish prepared PDQ.”
A parent might say to their child, “Put away your toys PDQ, or we won’t have time to go to the park.”

4. Rush

A verb used to describe the need for something to be done quickly or urgently. It implies a sense of urgency or importance.

For instance, a teacher might say to a student, “You need to rush and finish your exam before the bell rings.”
In a workplace, a manager might tell an employee, “We have a last-minute order. Please rush and get it shipped.”
A friend might call and say, “I’m running late. Can you rush and save me a seat?”

5. Pronto

A Spanish word meaning “quickly” or “right away.” It is often used in English to convey a sense of urgency or the need for immediate action.

For example, a customer might tell a waiter, “Bring me the check pronto, please.”
In a business meeting, someone might say, “We need to make a decision on this matter pronto.”
A parent might tell their child, “We’re leaving in five minutes, so finish getting ready pronto!”

6. Chop-chop

This phrase is used to urge someone to do something quickly or to move faster. It is often used in a playful or lighthearted manner.

For example, a parent might say to their child, “Finish your homework, chop-chop!”
In a work setting, a supervisor might say to their employee, “We need those reports by the end of the day, chop-chop!”
A friend might say to another friend, “We’re going to be late for the movie, chop-chop!”

7. Quick like a bunny

This phrase is used to describe something that is done or happens very quickly. It is often used in a playful or whimsical context.

For instance, a teacher might say to their students, “Finish your assignments quick like a bunny!”
A parent might say to their child, “Get dressed, we need to leave quick like a bunny!”
A friend might say to another friend, “We have to catch the train, let’s go quick like a bunny!”

8. In a jiffy

This phrase is used to indicate that something will happen or be done very quickly or soon. It is often used in a casual or informal context.

For example, a person might say, “I’ll be there in a jiffy!” when asked how soon they will arrive.
A coworker might say to another coworker, “I’ll finish this task in a jiffy!”
A friend might say to another friend, “I’ll grab us some snacks in a jiffy!”

9. Lickety-split

This phrase is used to describe something that is done or happens very quickly. It is often used in an enthusiastic or energetic context.

For instance, a person might say, “I finished the race lickety-split!”
A parent might say to their child, “Clean up your toys lickety-split!”
A friend might say to another friend, “Let’s get this project done lickety-split!”

10. Posthaste

This term is used to convey a sense of urgency or the need for immediate action. It is often used in a formal or old-fashioned context.

For example, a boss might say to their employee, “Send that email to the client posthaste!”
A teacher might say to their students, “Turn in your assignments posthaste!”
A person might say to another person, “We need to leave posthaste if we want to catch the last train!”

11. Double-quick

This phrase is used to emphasize the need for immediate action or to do something at a fast pace.

For example, a boss might say, “I need that report double-quick.”
In a military setting, a commander might order, “Move out, double-quick!”
A teacher might tell their students, “Finish your assignments double-quick so we can move on to the next lesson.”

12. Time is of the essence

This phrase is used to convey the importance of acting promptly or without delay.

For instance, a doctor might say, “In this situation, time is of the essence.”
In a business context, a manager might stress, “We need to make a decision soon; time is of the essence.”
A project leader might remind their team, “We have a tight deadline, so time is of the essence.”

13. Without delay

This phrase is used to indicate that something should be done immediately or without any delay.

For example, a supervisor might say, “Please complete the task without delay.”
In an emergency situation, a paramedic might instruct, “We need to transport the patient to the hospital without delay.”
A teacher might tell a student, “Hand in your assignment without delay, or you will receive a late penalty.”

14. On the double

This phrase is used to urge someone to move quickly or to do something without delay.

For instance, a coach might yell, “On the double, team! We’re running out of time.”
In a military context, a sergeant might command, “Get to your position on the double!”
A parent might tell their child, “Put your toys away on the double, or there will be consequences.”

15. Like yesterday

This phrase is used to express the urgency of completing a task or taking action as soon as possible.

For example, a friend might say, “I need that book back like yesterday.”
In a work setting, a colleague might request, “Please send me the report like yesterday.”
A teacher might remind their students, “The deadline for the project is approaching, so start working on it like yesterday.”

16. With all speed

This phrase is used to emphasize the need for immediate action or urgency. It suggests that something should be done as fast as possible.

For example, a supervisor might say, “I need you to complete this task with all speed.”
In a time-sensitive situation, someone might say, “We have to evacuate the building with all speed.”
A coach might shout during a game, “Get to the goal with all speed!”

17. Right now

This phrase is used to indicate that something needs to be done without any delay or hesitation. It emphasizes the urgency of the situation.

For instance, a parent might say to their child, “Clean your room right now.”
In a work setting, a boss might say, “I need that report on my desk right now.”
A teacher might instruct their students, “Put away your phones right now!”

18. Promptly

This word is used to convey the need for quick action or response. It suggests that something should be done in a timely manner, without any unnecessary delays.

For example, a receptionist might say, “Please sign in promptly when you arrive.”
In a business email, someone might write, “I expect a response to my inquiry promptly.”
A teacher might tell their students, “Submit your assignments promptly to avoid late penalties.”

19. Urgently

This word is used to express the need for immediate attention or action. It conveys a sense of urgency and indicates that something must be done quickly.

For instance, a doctor might say to a nurse, “We need to see the patient urgently.”
In a text message, someone might write, “Please call me urgently, it’s an emergency.”
A supervisor might tell their team, “I need these reports urgently, we have a deadline to meet.”

20. In the blink of an eye

This phrase is used to describe a very fast action or event. It suggests that something happens so quickly that it is almost instantaneous.

For example, a magician might say, “The rabbit disappeared in the blink of an eye.”
In a race, a commentator might say, “He crossed the finish line in the blink of an eye.”
A parent might exclaim, “My child grew up in the blink of an eye!”

21. In no time

This phrase is used to express the urgency or speed at which something will be done. It suggests that there will be no delay in completing a task or action.

For example, “Don’t worry, I’ll finish this report in no time.”
A person might say, “I’ll be there to pick you up in no time.”
Another might say, “You’ll have your coffee in no time, it’s almost ready.”

22. Right away

This phrase indicates that something will be done or attended to immediately, without any delay or hesitation.

For instance, “I’ll take care of that right away, no problem.”
A person might say, “I need those documents right away, please.”
Another might say, “The doctor will see you right away, please have a seat.”

23. Swiftly

This word suggests a fast or speedy action. It implies that something will be done or completed in a short amount of time.

For example, “The runner crossed the finish line swiftly.”
A person might say, “We need to resolve this issue swiftly before it escalates.”
Another might say, “The package was delivered swiftly, it arrived earlier than expected.”

24. Hastily

This word implies that something is done in a hurried or rushed manner, often without taking the time to consider all the details or consequences.

For instance, “He hastily packed his bags and left for the airport.”
A person might say, “She hastily wrote the email and accidentally sent it with spelling mistakes.”
Another might say, “He hastily made a decision without considering all the possible outcomes.”

25. Prontito

This Spanish slang term is used to convey a sense of urgency or immediacy. It is similar to saying “right away” or “very soon” in English.

For example, “I’ll be there prontito, just give me a few minutes.”
A person might say, “We need those documents prontito, the deadline is approaching.”
Another might say, “Please respond to my message prontito, it’s important.”

26. Quick sticks

This slang phrase means to move or act quickly. It is often used to urge someone to hurry or to complete a task promptly.

For example, “We need to finish this project quick sticks!”
A parent might say to their child, “Put your shoes on quick sticks or we’ll be late.”
In a sports context, a coach might yell at their team, “Get back on defense quick sticks!”

27. Double time

This term is used to indicate a need for increased speed or urgency. It is often used in military or marching contexts to signal a faster pace.

For instance, a drill sergeant might command their troops, “Double time, march!”
In a work setting, a supervisor might say, “We’re behind schedule, so let’s pick up the pace and go double time.”
A coach might instruct their team during a game, “We’re down by 10 points, so let’s play double time and try to catch up.”

28. Tout de suite

This French phrase is used in English to convey a sense of urgency or immediacy. It is often used to emphasize the need for prompt action.

For example, a boss might say to their employee, “I need that report tout de suite.”
In a restaurant, a customer might request, “Can I get the check tout de suite? I’m in a hurry.”
A teacher might tell their students, “Finish your assignments tout de suite so we can move on to the next lesson.”

29. Hurry up

This common phrase is used to urge someone to move or act quickly. It is straightforward and direct in its meaning of urgency.

For instance, a parent might say to their child, “Hurry up and get ready for school!”
In a work context, a colleague might say, “We’re running out of time, so hurry up and finish your part of the project.”
A coach might yell at their team during a game, “Hurry up and get back on defense!”

30. Quick as a flash

This phrase emphasizes the speed at which something is done or happens. It conveys a sense of urgency and immediacy.

For example, someone might say, “He answered the question quick as a flash.”
In a race, a commentator might say, “The runner sprinted to the finish line quick as a flash.”
A friend might ask, “Can you grab my phone? I need to make a call quick as a flash.”

31. In a rush

When someone is in a rush, it means they need to do something quickly or urgently. It implies that they are short on time and need to complete a task as soon as possible.

For example, “I’m in a rush to catch my flight, so I can’t stop for coffee.”
A person might say, “Sorry, I can’t chat right now. I’m in a rush to finish this report.”
Another example, “We’re in a rush to get to the concert on time, so let’s leave now.”

32. In a hurry

Similar to “in a rush,” being in a hurry means that someone needs to do something quickly or urgently. It suggests that there is a time constraint and they need to complete a task without delay.

For instance, “I’m in a hurry to catch the train, so I can’t stay long.”
A person might say, “We’re in a hurry to finish setting up for the event, so we need everyone’s help.”
Another example, “Sorry, I can’t talk right now. I’m in a hurry to meet someone.”

33. Quicksticks

Quicksticks is slang for doing something rapidly or immediately. It implies a sense of urgency and the need to act quickly without delay.

For example, “We need to finish this project quicksticks.”
A person might say, “I’ll be there quicksticks, just give me a minute.”
Another example, “Quicksticks, we’re running late. Let’s get going!”

34. Double-time

Double-time is a term used to describe doing something at a fast pace or with increased speed. It suggests that there is a need to hurry or complete a task quickly.

For instance, “We need to work double-time to meet the deadline.”
A person might say, “Let’s walk double-time so we can get there faster.”
Another example, “We’re running behind schedule, so let’s pick up the pace and move double-time.”

35. In a flash

When someone does something in a flash, it means they do it very quickly or immediately. It implies that there is a sense of urgency and the need to complete a task without delay.

For example, “He finished the race in a flash, setting a new record.”
A person might say, “I’ll be there in a flash, just give me a moment.”
Another example, “In a flash, the storm swept through the town, causing chaos and destruction.”

36. In the nick of time

This phrase means that something happened or was completed at the last possible moment before it would have been too late. It suggests that the timing was very close and urgent.

For example, “The hero arrived in the nick of time to save the day.”
In a race, someone might say, “I finished in the nick of time, just before the clock ran out.”
A person might exclaim, “I submitted my assignment in the nick of time, right before the deadline!”

37. Snappy

When something is described as snappy, it means that it is done or happens quickly and efficiently. It implies a sense of urgency and speed.

For instance, “We need to finish this task snappy, there’s no time to waste!”
A supervisor might say, “I need you to respond to those emails snappy.”
A person might ask, “Can you give me a snappy summary of the meeting?”

38. In a New York minute

This phrase means that something happens or is done very quickly. It suggests a sense of urgency and immediacy, as New York City is often associated with a fast-paced lifestyle.

For example, “He agreed to the offer in a New York minute.”
A person might say, “I would leave this job in a New York minute if I had another opportunity.”
Someone might exclaim, “I’ll be ready to go in a New York minute!”

39. In a trice

This phrase means that something happens or is done very quickly, almost instantaneously. It suggests a sense of urgency and efficiency.

For instance, “The problem was solved in a trice.”
A person might say, “I’ll be back in a trice, just need to grab something from my car.”
Someone might ask, “Can you finish this task in a trice?”

40. In double-quick time

This phrase means that something happens or is done very quickly, often faster than expected. It suggests a sense of urgency and efficiency.

For example, “She finished the project in double-quick time.”
A person might say, “We need to get this done in double-quick time, there’s no time to waste.”
Someone might exclaim, “I’ll be there in double-quick time, just need to grab my coat!”

41. In a heartbeat

This phrase is used to emphasize the speed or urgency of an action. It means to do something without any delay or hesitation.

For example, “If my favorite band announced a reunion concert, I would buy tickets in a heartbeat.”
A person might say, “I would quit my job in a heartbeat if I won the lottery.”
Another situation where this phrase can be used is, “If someone tried to hurt my family, I would defend them in a heartbeat.”

42. Statim

This Latin word is used as medical slang to mean “immediately” or “right away.” It is often used in emergency medical situations to convey the need for immediate action.

For instance, a doctor might say, “Prepare the operating room statim!”
In a medical TV show, a nurse might shout, “We need a crash cart statim!”
Another example could be, “The patient’s condition deteriorated rapidly, and the doctor ordered a CT scan statim.”

43. Quick smart

This phrase is used to describe doing something quickly and efficiently. It implies a sense of urgency and the need to act promptly.

For example, “When I realized I left my phone at home, I turned around quick smart to retrieve it.”
A person might say, “If you want to catch the train, you better start walking quick smart.”
Another example could be, “When the fire alarm went off, everyone evacuated the building quick smart.”

44. Speedily

This word is a formal way of saying “quickly” or “rapidly.” It is often used to describe an action that is done with great speed or urgency.

For instance, “I completed the assignment speedily to meet the deadline.”
A person might say, “I need to finish this project speedily so I can move on to the next one.”
Another example could be, “The ambulance arrived speedily to provide medical assistance.”

45. Before you can say Jack Robinson

This phrase is used to emphasize how quickly something happens or how little time it takes for an action to occur. It is often used to describe an event or action that happens almost instantaneously.

For example, “The thief was gone before you could say Jack Robinson.”
A person might say, “I finished the race before you could say Jack Robinson.”
Another example could be, “The food was devoured before you could say Jack Robinson.”

46. In two shakes of a lamb’s tail

This phrase is used to indicate that something will be done or happen very quickly.

For example, “I’ll be there in two shakes of a lamb’s tail.”
When asked how long it will take to complete a task, someone might respond, “I can do it in two shakes of a lamb’s tail.”
A person might say, “I finished my work in two shakes of a lamb’s tail and went out to play.”

47. In the twinkling of an eye

This phrase is used to indicate that something will happen or be done very quickly, almost instantaneously.

For instance, “He disappeared in the twinkling of an eye.”
When describing a fast action, someone might say, “I finished the race in the twinkling of an eye.”
A person might exclaim, “The magician made the rabbit disappear in the twinkling of an eye!”

48. In a snap

This phrase is used to indicate that something will happen or be done right away, without delay.

For example, “I’ll be there in a snap.”
When asked how quickly they can finish a task, someone might say, “I can do it in a snap.”
A person might exclaim, “I solved the puzzle in a snap!”

49. In a wink

This phrase is used to indicate that something will happen or be done very quickly, in the blink of an eye.

For instance, “He fixed the problem in a wink.”
When asked how long it will take to complete a task, someone might respond, “I can do it in a wink.”
A person might say, “I finished my homework in a wink and went out to play.”

50. In a split second

This phrase is used to indicate that something will happen or be done right away, without any delay.

For example, “He made the decision in a split second.”
When describing a fast action, someone might say, “I dodged the ball in a split second.”
A person might exclaim, “The car came to a stop in a split second!”