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"Rápido" is an adjective which is often translated as "fast", and "pronto" is an adverb which is often translated as "soon". Learn more about the difference between "rápido" and "pronto" below.
rápido(
rrah
-
pee
-
doh
)
An adjective is a word that describes a noun (e.g., the big dog).
adjective
a. fast
¡Quiero un coche rápido cuando sea grande!I want a fast car when I grow up!
b. quick
El proceso es rápido y sencillo, así que no te preocupes.The process is quick and easy, so don't worry.
An adverb is a word that describes a verb, an adjective, or other adverbs (e.g., to run quickly, very tired).
adverb
a. fast
¡No vayas tan rápido! ¡Me estás asustando!Don't go so fast! You're scaring me!
b. quickly
La mayoría responde rápido a este tratamiento.Most people respond quickly to this treatment.
A masculine noun is used with masculine articles and adjectives (e.g., el hombre guapo, el sol amarillo).
masculine noun
a. express train
Cuando fuimos a Japón, tomamos el rápido a Tokio.When we went to Japan, we took the express train to Tokyo.
b. fast train
Los planes para tener un rápido entre Los Ángeles y San Francisco han quedado truncos.Plans for a fast train between Los Angeles and San Francisco are incomplete.
los rápidos
A plural noun indicates that there is more than one person, place, thing, or idea.
plural noun
a. rapids
Bajar por los rápidos del río Colorado fue muy emocionante.Going down the rapids of the Colorado River was very exciting.
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pronto(
prohn
-
toh
)
An adverb is a word that describes a verb, an adjective, or other adverbs (e.g., to run quickly, very tired).
adverb
a. soon
Pronto llegan tus abuelos de Cuba.Your grandparents are arriving from Cuba soon.
a. fast
Tenemos que entregar esto pronto.We need to turn this in fast.
b. quickly
Órale, llegaste pronto.Wow, you got here quickly.
3. (before the expected time)
Regionalism used in Spain
(Spain)
a. early
Es muy pronto. Creo que todavía no llegan de trabajar.It's too early. I don't think they're home from work yet.
An adjective is a word that describes a noun (e.g., the big dog).
adjective
a. quick
Su servicio es pronto y conveniente.Their service is quick and convenient.
b. prompt (formal)
Nos dijeron que podemos esperar una pronta respuesta.They told us we can expect a prompt response.
a. ready
Dice mamá que el desayuno está pronto.Mom says breakfast is ready.
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