Definition

Adverb 1. Quickly, rapidly, or at a fast pace: Used to describe an action or process that happens with speed and without delay.

Usage

The adverb "apace" is used to modify verbs, indicating that the action is performed swiftly. It is a formal or literary word, often found in written English rather than everyday conversation. It typically follows the verb it modifies or is used in the structure "with something continuing apace."

Examples

• The construction of the new bridge proceeded apace.
• Technological change continues apace.
• She walked apace to catch up with the group.
• Rumors of the merger spread apace through the office.

Advanced Usage

• "Continue apace": A common collocation meaning to keep progressing quickly without slowing down.
  • Despite the challenges, research into the vaccine continues apace.
• "Proceed apace": Another frequent pairing meaning to advance or move forward rapidly.
  • Preparations for the royal visit are proceeding apace.

Variants and Related Words

• Pace (noun): The speed at which someone or something moves or happens.
  • He slowed his pace as he grew tired.
• Pace (verb): To walk at a steady speed, especially back and forth.
  • She paced the room nervously.

Synonyms

• Quickly
• Rapidly
• Swiftly
• Speedily
• Fast

Antonyms

• Slowly
• Gradually
• Leisurely

Idioms and Phrases

While "apace" itself is not commonly used in idioms, it appears in the proverbial phrase: - Ill news runs apace: Bad news travels quickly. - When the scandal broke, it confirmed that ill news runs apace.

Adverb

1. with rapid movements
   • he works quickly