hasten
/ˈheɪsən/
Reviewed on
Type
Verb
- Formal
Meaning
To cause something to happen sooner or more quickly.
A poor diet and chronic lack of sleep will only hasten the aging process.
Did the sudden drop in interest rates hasten the company's decision to expand?
To move or act with speed.
She hastened to the departure gate after hearing the final boarding call.
The pedestrians hastened across the street before the storm began.
How it's used
When this means “cause something to happen sooner”
- hasten the process
“hastened it.”
The unexpected scandal hastened his departure from public office.
When this means “move quickly to a place”
- hastened to the gate
“hastened there.”
Paramedics hastened to the scene of the accident.
Collocations
- hasten the demise
- hasten to add
Synonyms
- accelerate
- speed up
- hurry
- rush