Punctuality
/,pʌɳktju'æliti/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: The quality or characteristic of being on time; the habit of arriving, completing tasks, or occurring at the precise or agreed-upon time.
Usage
"Punctuality" is an uncountable noun used to describe a person's consistent behavior or a system's reliability regarding timeliness. It is a formal and positive trait, often associated with professionalism, respect, and discipline.
Examples
- Her punctuality is remarkable; she has never been late to a meeting.
- The train service is known for its punctuality.
- Punctuality is highly valued in Japanese culture.
Advanced Usage
- With prepositions: It is commonly used with the preposition "of" (e.g., the punctuality of the employee) or "in" (e.g., punctuality in attendance).
- As an abstract concept: It can be discussed as a principle or standard, not just a personal habit. For example: "We must improve punctuality across the entire department."
Variants and Related Words
- Punctual (adjective): Describing a person or thing that is on time.
- He is a very punctual student.
- Punctually (adverb): In a punctual manner.
- The event started punctually at 9 AM.
Synonyms
- Timeliness: The fact of happening at a suitable or correct time.
- Promptness: The quality of acting without delay.
Antonyms
- Tardiness: The quality or habit of being late.
- Unpunctuality: The state of not being punctual (less common than "tardiness").
Idioms and Phrases
- To be a stickler for punctuality: To insist very strictly on being on time.
- Our manager is a real stickler for punctuality.
Noun
- the quality or habit of adhering to an appointed time