Definition

Adverb 1. Superlative form of "soon": Indicates the shortest possible time or the earliest possible moment among given options or in comparison to all other possibilities. - Example: "Please reply at your soonest convenience." - Example: "We need the report soonest."

Usage

• "Soonest" is used to emphasize urgency or the absolute minimum delay. It is common in formal requests, business communication, and instructions.
• It often appears in set phrases like "at your soonest convenience" (as early as you can manage) or "as soon as possible" (often abbreviated as ASAP, with "soonest" being a more formal or emphatic variant).
• It can function as an adverb on its own, typically at the end of a request or instruction.

Examples

• In formal requests:
  • Please send the signed documents soonest.
  • Kindly provide your feedback at your soonest convenience.
• Comparing timeframes:
  • Of all the delivery options, this one will get it to you soonest.
  • The soonest we can schedule a meeting is next Tuesday.

Advanced Usage

• "The soonest": Used with a defining clause (often starting with "that") to specify the absolute earliest time for a particular event or action.
  • The soonest that the repairs can be completed is Friday.
  • The soonest I can finish is by noon.

Variants and Related Words

• Soon (adverb): In a short time from now; before long.
  • Example: "She will arrive soon."
• Sooner (comparative adverb): In a shorter time; more promptly. Also used in the idiom "sooner or later."
  • Example: "Can you come sooner?"
• As soon as (conjunction): At the moment when; immediately after.
  • Example: "Call me as soon as you arrive."

Synonyms

• Earliest: At the earliest possible time.
• Most promptly: With the greatest speed or immediacy.
• Most quickly: In the shortest amount of time.

Related Phrases

• At the earliest opportunity: As soon as it is possible to do so.
  • We will address this issue at the earliest opportunity.
• At your earliest convenience: A polite phrase requesting someone to do something as soon as they are able.
  • Please remit payment at your earliest convenience.

Adverb

1. with the least delay
   • the soonest I can arrive is 3 P.M.