This page in your language

فارسی

العربية

Deutsch

Español

Français

日本語

한국어

Português

中文

हिन्दी

A2 adjective | adverb #40 most common 17 min read

faster

Top 40

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips faster in 30 Seconds

Explanation faster in your Level:

At the A1 level, 'faster' is one of the first comparative words you will learn. It is used to talk about very simple things in your daily life. You use it when you want to say that one thing has more speed than another thing. For example, you can say 'A car is faster than a bike' or 'I can run faster than my brother.' At this level, you don't need to worry about complex grammar. Just remember that 'faster' is 'fast' plus '-er'. You use it to compare two things. You will often see it with the word 'than'. For example: 'A is faster than B.' It is a very helpful word when you are talking about animals, vehicles, or how people move. You might also hear it in a classroom when a teacher says 'Speak faster' or 'Work faster.' It is a basic building block for describing the world around you and how things move at different speeds. You should practice using it with simple nouns like 'train', 'plane', 'dog', and 'cat'. This will help you get comfortable with the idea of comparing things in English.

At the A2 level, you are becoming more comfortable with 'faster' and can use it in more varied sentences. You understand that 'faster' can be both an adjective ('a faster car') and an adverb ('he runs faster'). You are also learning to use modifiers to show how much faster something is. For example, you can say 'much faster', 'a little faster', or 'a bit faster'. This adds more detail to your descriptions. You might use 'faster' to talk about technology, like 'My new phone is faster than my old one,' or about your daily routine, like 'I can get to school faster if I take the bus.' You are also starting to see 'faster' in common phrases like 'faster and faster'. You should be careful not to say 'more faster', which is a common mistake at this level. Remember that 'faster' already means 'more fast'. You are also learning to use 'faster' in the 'the... the...' structure, such as 'The faster you walk, the sooner you arrive,' which is a very useful way to show how two things are connected.

At the B1 level, you can use 'faster' to discuss more abstract concepts and in professional or academic settings. You might talk about 'faster economic growth' or 'faster ways to learn a language'. You are comfortable using 'faster' as an adverb in complex sentences, such as 'The company is developing new technologies faster than its competitors.' You also understand the difference between 'faster' and 'quicker' and can choose the best word for the situation. You might use 'faster' to describe trends in society, like 'Life is moving faster today than in the past.' At this level, you can also use 'faster' in idiomatic expressions and more sophisticated grammatical structures. You are able to use it in the passive voice or with modal verbs, like 'The process could be made faster with better equipment.' Your use of 'faster' is becoming more precise, and you can use it to make logical arguments and comparisons in both speaking and writing. You are also more aware of the register, knowing when 'faster' is appropriate and when a more formal word like 'rapid' might be better.

At the B2 level, you have a high degree of control over the word 'faster' and its various nuances. You can use it fluently in a wide range of contexts, from technical discussions to creative writing. You understand how 'faster' interacts with other parts of speech and can use it to create complex, nuanced comparisons. For example, you might say, 'The rate of urban development is significantly faster in emerging economies than in developed ones.' You are also familiar with more advanced collocations and idiomatic uses, such as 'fast-track' or 'faster-to-market'. You can use 'faster' to describe subtle changes in tempo, mood, or efficiency. In a business context, you might discuss 'faster turnaround times' or 'faster ROI (return on investment)'. You are also able to recognize and correct subtle errors in the use of 'faster' by others. Your vocabulary is broad enough that you can easily substitute 'faster' with more specific synonyms like 'expeditious', 'accelerated', or 'brisk' when the context requires it. You use 'faster' not just to describe speed, but to analyze and evaluate performance and progress in various fields.

At the C1 level, your use of 'faster' is sophisticated and precise. You can use it to discuss highly complex and abstract topics, such as the 'faster-than-light' theories in physics or the 'faster-paced' nature of postmodern life. You are aware of the subtle connotations 'faster' can carry in different professional fields, such as medicine, law, or engineering. You can use 'faster' in highly structured and rhetorical ways to emphasize a point or create a specific effect in your writing. For example, you might use it in a parallel structure to highlight the disparity between two different rates of change. You also have a deep understanding of the etymology and historical development of the word, which allows you to use it with a greater sense of linguistic history. You are able to use 'faster' in a way that is indistinguishable from a native speaker, including its use in subtle irony or humor. Your ability to use 'faster' alongside its many synonyms and related terms allows you to express very fine distinctions in meaning and tone, making your communication both effective and elegant.

At the C2 level, you have mastered 'faster' to the point where it is a versatile tool in your extensive linguistic repertoire. You can use it with absolute precision in any context, from the most technical scientific paper to the most nuanced piece of literature. You understand the philosophical implications of 'faster' in the context of time, perception, and human experience. You can use 'faster' to explore complex metaphors and analogies. Your use of the word is characterized by a high degree of stylistic flexibility; you can use it to be blunt and direct, or subtle and suggestive. You are also fully aware of the socio-linguistic aspects of the word, including how its use might vary across different dialects and social groups. At this level, 'faster' is not just a word for speed, but a concept that you can manipulate and examine from multiple perspectives. You can use it to critique societal trends, analyze scientific data, or create evocative imagery. Your mastery of 'faster' is complete, allowing you to use it with total confidence and creativity in any situation.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

faster in 30 Seconds

Faster is the comparative form of 'fast', used to describe something with more speed.
It can act as both an adjective and an adverb without changing its form.
It is commonly used with 'than' to compare two distinct objects or actions.
Commonly seen in contexts like sports, technology, travel, and daily efficiency.

The word 'faster' is the comparative form of the adjective and adverb 'fast'. At its core, it describes a higher rate of speed, a shorter duration of time to complete a task, or a more rapid progression of events when compared to a reference point. In the physical world, we use 'faster' to compare the velocity of objects, such as a sports car being faster than a sedan, or a cheetah being faster than a lion. However, the utility of 'faster' extends far beyond physical movement. It is a cornerstone of efficiency in modern language, frequently applied to technology, cognitive processes, and economic trends. When we say a computer is 'faster', we are referring to its processing power and the reduced latency in executing commands. When we speak of a 'faster' recovery, we are highlighting a shorter timeframe for healing compared to the average or a previous instance. The word serves as a fundamental tool for evaluation and optimization in almost every human endeavor.

Comparative Mechanics: The suffix '-er' is added to the base word 'fast' to create the comparative. Unlike many adjectives that require 'more' (e.g., 'more beautiful'), 'faster' is a synthetic comparative, meaning the comparison is built directly into the word itself. This makes it punchy and direct, ideal for urgent communication or clear data comparison.

The new software update allows the system to process data much faster than the previous version.

In social contexts, 'faster' often carries a connotation of progress or superiority. In the workplace, completing tasks faster is usually seen as a sign of competence and productivity. In sports, being faster is the primary goal of racing. However, it can also imply haste or a lack of care if used in a cautionary sense, such as 'don't drive any faster than you feel comfortable'. The versatility of 'faster' allows it to function as both an adjective ('a faster car') and an adverb ('he runs faster'), which is a relatively rare trait in English where adverbs usually end in '-ly'. This dual-purpose nature simplifies sentence construction for learners but requires attention to the word it is modifying.

Temporal vs. Spatial Speed: Spatial speed refers to physical movement through space (e.g., a faster train). Temporal speed refers to the rate at which time passes or an event unfolds (e.g., the days are going by faster). 'Faster' seamlessly bridges these two concepts, allowing speakers to describe both the physical and the abstract with the same term.

If we take the highway, we will arrive faster than if we take the back roads.

The concept of 'faster' is also deeply embedded in our psychological perception of the world. As we age, many people report that time seems to move faster. This subjective experience of 'faster' is a common topic in literature and philosophy. In the realm of technology, Moore's Law historically predicted that computing power would get faster and cheaper at an exponential rate. This constant drive for 'faster' results has shaped the modern digital landscape, from high-frequency trading in finance to the instant gratification of social media feeds. Understanding 'faster' is not just about knowing a word for speed; it's about understanding a fundamental driver of human innovation and the constant comparison we make between the present and a more efficient future.

Linguistic Nuance: While 'faster' is the standard comparative, in very formal or technical writing, authors might opt for 'more rapid' or 'more expeditious'. However, 'faster' remains the most versatile and widely understood term across all registers of English, from casual conversation to scientific reports.

The athlete's heart rate returned to normal faster than expected after the sprint.

Technology is changing faster than society can adapt.

To win the race, you must be faster off the starting line.

In conclusion, 'faster' is an indispensable word that quantifies the acceleration of our lives, our tools, and our environment. It provides a linguistic yardstick for measuring improvement and comparing performance. Whether you are discussing the speed of a cheetah, the efficiency of a kitchen appliance, or the rapid pace of urban life, 'faster' is the primary adjective and adverb used to express that something is moving or happening with greater velocity or in less time than something else.

Using 'faster' correctly involves understanding its role as a comparative. It is most commonly used in the structure '[Subject A] is faster than [Subject B]' when acting as an adjective, or '[Subject A] [Verb] faster than [Subject B]' when acting as an adverb. Because 'faster' is a short, one-syllable word (in its base form 'fast'), it takes the '-er' suffix rather than being preceded by 'more'. One of the most frequent errors for English learners is saying 'more faster', which is a double comparative and grammatically incorrect. To emphasize the degree of speed, you can use modifiers like 'much faster', 'a lot faster', 'slightly faster', or 'even faster'. These modifiers add depth to the comparison without breaking the grammatical rules of the comparative form.

Adjective Usage: When 'faster' modifies a noun, it usually follows a linking verb like 'is', 'seems', or 'becomes'. For example: 'The internet connection is faster today.' It can also appear directly before a noun: 'We need a faster solution to this problem.'

She bought a faster computer to help with her video editing work.

As an adverb, 'faster' modifies an action. It tells us how something is being done. 'He ran faster to catch the bus' or 'The music played faster and faster.' Note that 'faster' is an irregular adverb because it doesn't end in '-ly'. This is a point of confusion for many, but 'fastly' is not used in modern English. When you want to describe the manner of an action in a comparative sense, 'faster' is your go-to word. It is also frequently used in the 'the... the...' construction to show a proportional relationship: 'The faster you work, the sooner we can leave.' This structure is very common in both spoken and written English to express cause and effect regarding speed.

Adverbial Nuance: In adverbial use, 'faster' often appears after the verb it modifies. 'Speak faster' or 'Drive faster'. It can also be modified by 'far' or 'way' in informal contexts: 'He can run way faster than me.'

The heart beats faster when you are excited or nervous.

Another important usage is in the phrase 'faster than ever'. This compares the current speed to all previous instances in history or personal experience. 'Communication is faster than ever thanks to the internet.' This phrase is a staple in marketing and news reporting to emphasize rapid advancement. Additionally, 'faster' is used in various idiomatic expressions and phrasal structures. For instance, 'faster than a speeding bullet' is a famous hyperbole. In business, 'fast-track' or 'faster-to-market' are common terms. When using 'faster' in a sentence, always ensure the comparison is clear. If you say 'You need to work faster,' the implied comparison is 'faster than you are working now.' Clarity in comparison is the key to mastering the use of 'faster'.

Common Phrasings: 'Faster and faster' is used to describe an accelerating process. 'The car went faster and faster as it rolled down the hill.' This repetition emphasizes the continuous increase in speed.

We need to find a faster way to get through the city traffic.

The ice is melting faster than scientists originally predicted.

Could you please speak a little faster? We are in a hurry.

Finally, consider the emotional weight 'faster' can carry. In a high-pressure environment, the command 'Faster!' can be stressful. In a celebratory context, like a race, it is an encouragement. The context of the sentence often dictates whether 'faster' is a neutral observation of speed or a value judgment on efficiency. By varying the modifiers and the sentence structure, you can use 'faster' to convey a wide range of meanings and tones, making it a truly versatile component of your English vocabulary.

You will encounter the word 'faster' in almost every facet of daily life, from the mundane to the highly technical. In the world of sports and athletics, 'faster' is perhaps the most common word used. Commentators constantly discuss whether an athlete is 'faster' than their opponent, or if a team needs to play at a 'faster' tempo to win. It is the literal measure of success in track and field, swimming, and cycling. In these contexts, 'faster' is often associated with records, personal bests, and the physical limits of human capability. When you watch the Olympics, the word 'faster' (Citius, in the Olympic motto 'Citius, Altius, Fortius') is a central theme of the entire event.

Technology and Marketing: Marketing campaigns for smartphones, laptops, and internet service providers rely heavily on the word 'faster'. 'Faster downloads', 'faster charging', and 'faster performance' are the primary selling points used to convince consumers to upgrade their devices. In the tech industry, 'faster' is synonymous with 'better'.

The commercial promised that the new 5G network would be ten times faster than 4G.

In the workplace and business world, 'faster' is a key metric for productivity. Managers look for 'faster' ways to complete projects, 'faster' response times to customer inquiries, and 'faster' growth in revenue. The 'fast-paced environment' often mentioned in job descriptions implies that employees must be able to think and act 'faster' than in a traditional setting. In logistics and shipping, 'faster' delivery is a competitive advantage, with companies like Amazon and FedEx constantly innovating to move packages 'faster' across the globe. Here, 'faster' translates directly into economic value and customer satisfaction.

Daily Commute and Travel: Whether you are checking a GPS app like Google Maps or listening to traffic reports on the radio, you will hear 'faster' used to describe routes. 'This route is 5 minutes faster' or 'Traffic is moving faster on the I-95' are common phrases that help people navigate their daily lives.

I need a faster way to get to work because I'm tired of being late.

In the kitchen and culinary world, 'faster' is often associated with convenience. 'Fast food' is the most obvious example, but you also hear about 'faster' cooking methods like pressure cooking or air frying. Recipes might offer 'faster' alternatives for busy weeknights. In this context, 'faster' is about saving time and reducing the labor involved in preparing a meal. Even in science and nature documentaries, 'faster' is used to describe the speed of light, the rate of climate change, or the predatory tactics of animals. It is a universal descriptor for the tempo of the natural and man-made world.

Media and Entertainment: In movies and music, 'faster' can describe the editing style of an action film or the BPM (beats per minute) of a song. A 'faster' song usually feels more energetic and danceable, while a 'faster' movie might feel more intense and exciting.

The director decided to make the scene faster by cutting out unnecessary dialogue.

The heart of the city beats faster during the rush hour.

We need to find a faster way to solve this climate crisis.

Finally, you will hear 'faster' in the context of personal growth and learning. Students want to learn 'faster', and self-help books promise 'faster' ways to achieve success. This reflects a societal obsession with speed and efficiency. Whether it's the 'faster' pulse of a city or the 'faster' heartbeat of a runner, the word is an ever-present part of our auditory environment, signaling movement, change, and the relentless march of time.

Even though 'faster' is a relatively simple word, it is the source of several common grammatical errors, particularly for those whose native languages handle comparatives differently. The most frequent mistake is the use of the 'double comparative'. This occurs when a speaker uses both the '-er' suffix and the word 'more' together, resulting in 'more faster'. In English, you use one or the other, but never both. Since 'fast' is a one-syllable word, the '-er' suffix is the correct choice. Saying 'more faster' is considered a significant error in both spoken and written English and can make a speaker sound less proficient.

The 'Fastly' Trap: Many learners assume that because 'slow' becomes 'slowly', 'fast' must become 'fastly'. However, 'fast' is an irregular adverb that remains 'fast' in its base form and becomes 'faster' in its comparative form. 'Fastly' is an archaic word that is no longer used in standard modern English. Always use 'faster' as the adverbial comparative.

Incorrect: He runs more faster than me. Correct: He runs faster than me.

Another common error involves the confusion between 'faster' and 'sooner'. While they are related, they are not interchangeable. 'Faster' refers to speed or the rate of an action, while 'sooner' refers to time relative to the present or another event. For example, if you want to say you will arrive at an earlier time, you should use 'sooner'. If you want to say you will travel at a higher speed, you use 'faster'. Saying 'I will be there faster' is common in casual speech, but 'I will be there sooner' is often more accurate if you are talking about the time on the clock. Understanding this distinction helps in providing clearer information.

Comparison Reference Errors: When using 'faster', the thing being compared must be clear. A mistake like 'My car is faster than you' is a logical error. You are comparing a car to a person. The correct comparison is 'My car is faster than yours' or 'My car is faster than your car'.

Incorrect: I can type fastly. Correct: I can type faster now than I could last year.

Spelling can also be a minor issue. While 'faster' is straightforward, some learners might try to double the 't' (e.g., 'fastter') because they are used to doubling consonants in other comparative forms (like 'bigger' or 'hotter'). However, 'fast' ends in two consonants ('st'), so you simply add '-er' without doubling anything. Additionally, using 'faster' when 'quick' or 'quickly' might be more appropriate is a stylistic choice, but 'faster' is generally more focused on velocity, while 'quicker' often implies a shorter duration or a prompt response. Misusing these can lead to subtle shifts in meaning that might not be intended.

Comparative vs. Superlative: Using 'faster' when comparing more than two items is a common slip-up. 'Of the three runners, John was faster' should be 'Of the three runners, John was fastest'. 'Faster' is strictly for comparing two things.

Incorrect: This is the faster of all the cars. Correct: This is the fastest of all the cars.

The faster we go, the more fuel we use.

She needs to get faster at solving these puzzles.

In summary, the key to avoiding mistakes with 'faster' is to remember its irregular adverbial form, avoid double comparatives, ensure logical comparisons, and use it only when comparing two entities. By keeping these rules in mind, you can use 'faster' with confidence and precision in any context.

While 'faster' is the most common word for increased speed, English offers a rich variety of synonyms and alternatives that can provide more specific meaning or fit a particular register. Choosing the right alternative depends on whether you are talking about physical speed, the time it takes to do something, or the efficiency of a process. 'Quicker' is the most frequent alternative. While often used interchangeably with 'faster', 'quicker' often emphasizes the briefness of the time taken rather than the velocity of the movement. For example, 'a quicker way' often means a shorter route, whereas 'a faster way' might mean a route where you can drive at higher speeds.

Formal Alternatives: In formal or academic writing, you might use 'more rapid', 'more expeditious', or 'swifter'. 'Rapid' is often used for changes or movements that happen quickly over a period, like 'rapid economic growth'. 'Expeditious' is used for actions done efficiently and promptly, often in a business or legal context.

The company sought a more expeditious method for processing applications.

'Swifter' is a more literary or poetic alternative to 'faster'. It suggests a smooth, graceful speed, often used to describe birds, runners, or the flow of a river. 'Brisk' is another alternative, but it specifically refers to a quick, energetic pace, often used for walking or the weather (e.g., 'a brisk walk', 'a brisk wind'). If you are talking about something happening at a high rate of speed in a technical sense, 'higher velocity' might be used. In the context of technology, 'more responsive' or 'higher performance' are often used instead of 'faster' to describe how a system feels to the user.

Comparison Table: 'Faster' (General speed) vs. 'Quicker' (Short time/promptness) vs. 'Swifter' (Graceful/literary speed) vs. 'More Rapid' (High rate of change).

The eagle is much swifter than the smaller birds it hunts.

In informal settings, you might hear 'snappier' or 'zippier'. 'Snappy' often refers to something that is quick and concise, like 'snappy dialogue'. 'Zippy' is a fun, informal way to describe a small, fast car or a high-energy person. On the opposite end, if you want to describe something that is becoming faster, you could use 'accelerated'. For example, 'an accelerated learning program'. This implies a deliberate increase in speed. Understanding these nuances allows you to be more descriptive and precise in your communication, moving beyond the basic 'faster' to words that capture the exact nature of the speed you are describing.

Idiomatic Alternatives: 'In the blink of an eye' or 'at breakneck speed' are idiomatic ways to say something is much faster than usual. These add color and emphasis to your speech.

The project moved at breakneck speed to meet the deadline.

We need a snappier title for the new marketing campaign.

The brisk pace of the morning walk woke everyone up.

Ultimately, while 'faster' is a perfectly good and highly useful word, expanding your vocabulary to include these alternatives will make your English sound more natural and sophisticated. Whether you are writing a formal report or chatting with friends, having a range of words for speed at your disposal is a great asset.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

"The study indicates a faster rate of recovery in patients receiving the new medication."

Neutral

"We need to find a faster route to the office to avoid the morning traffic."

Informal

"Can't you go any faster? We're going to be late!"

Child friendly

"The bunny is faster than the turtle in the story."

Slang

"That new whip is way faster than your old one."

Fun Fact

The original meaning of 'fast' as 'firm' is still seen in phrases like 'hold fast' or 'fast asleep' (meaning firmly asleep). The transition to 'speedy' happened because something moving strongly was seen as moving quickly.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ˈfɑːstə(r)/

US /ˈfæstər/

The stress is on the first syllable: FAS-ter.

Rhymes With

master pastor plaster disaster caster blaster vaster alabaster

Common Errors

Pronouncing it as 'fast-er' with two distinct, equal syllables.
In British English, using the short 'a' (US style) or vice versa.
Over-emphasizing the 'r' in non-rhotic accents.
Confusing the vowel sound with 'foster'.
Adding an extra 't' sound in the middle.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

Easy to recognize as a comparative of a common word.

Writing 3/5

Requires avoiding the 'more faster' mistake.

Speaking 2/5

Very common and useful in daily conversation.

Listening 2/5

Easily understood in most contexts.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

fast slow than more speed

Learn Next

fastest quicker rapidly accelerate efficiency

Advanced

expeditious velocity celerity precipitate fleet

Grammar to Know

One-syllable comparative adjectives

fast -> faster, small -> smaller

Adverbs with the same form as adjectives

He is fast (adj). He runs fast (adv). He runs faster (comp adv).

The... the... comparative structure

The faster we run, the more tired we get.

Avoiding double comparatives

Correct: faster. Incorrect: more faster.

Using 'than' for comparison

This car is faster than that one.

Examples by Level

A plane is faster than a car.

Un avion est plus rapide qu'une voiture.

Simple comparative with 'than'.

He can run faster than me.

Il peut courir plus vite que moi.

Adverbial use of 'faster'.

The red bike is faster.

Le vélo rouge est plus rapide.

Adjective use with implied comparison.

Can you walk faster?

Peux-tu marcher plus vite ?

Adverbial use in a question.

My dog is faster than your dog.

Mon chien est plus rapide que ton chien.

Comparative adjective.

The train is faster today.

Le train est plus rapide aujourd'hui.

Adjective use with a time reference.

Please speak faster.

S'il vous plaît, parlez plus vite.

Imperative with adverbial 'faster'.

This computer is faster.

Cet ordinateur est plus rapide.

Simple adjective comparison.

The new internet is much faster than the old one.

Le nouvel internet est beaucoup plus rapide que l'ancien.

Use of 'much' as a modifier.

The faster you finish, the sooner we can go.

Plus vite tu finis, plus tôt nous pourrons partir.

The... the... construction.

He is getting faster at playing the piano.

Il devient plus rapide à jouer du piano.

Getting + faster (process of change).

We need a faster way to cook dinner.

Nous avons besoin d'un moyen plus rapide de préparer le dîner.

Adjective modifying 'way'.

The car went faster and faster down the hill.

La voiture allait de plus en plus vite en descendant la colline.

Repetition for emphasis (faster and faster).

Is it faster to go by bus or by train?

Est-ce plus rapide d'y aller en bus ou en train ?

Comparison between two options.

She types faster than anyone else in the office.

Elle tape plus vite que n'importe qui d'autre au bureau.

Adverbial comparison with 'anyone else'.

The heart beats faster when you are scared.

Le cœur bat plus vite quand on a peur.

Adverbial use describing a physical reaction.

Technology is evolving faster than we can imagine.

La technologie évolue plus vite que nous ne pouvons l'imaginer.

Adverbial use with a clause.

We need to find a faster solution to the climate crisis.

Nous devons trouver une solution plus rapide à la crise climatique.

Adjective modifying an abstract noun.

The company's growth was faster than expected this year.

La croissance de l'entreprise a été plus rapide que prévu cette année.

Comparison with an expectation.

The faster pace of life in the city can be stressful.

Le rythme de vie plus rapide en ville peut être stressant.

Adjective modifying 'pace'.

He learned the language much faster by living abroad.

Il a appris la langue beaucoup plus vite en vivant à l'étranger.

Adverbial use with a gerund phrase.

The recovery process was faster due to the new treatment.

Le processus de récupération a été plus rapide grâce au nouveau traitement.

Adjective modifying 'process'.

They are working faster to meet the deadline.

Ils travaillent plus vite pour respecter le délai.

Adverbial use with an infinitive of purpose.

The news spread faster than ever through social media.

La nouvelle s'est propagée plus vite que jamais grâce aux médias sociaux.

Faster than ever (idiomatic comparison).

The market is reacting faster to global events than in the past.

Le marché réagit plus rapidement aux événements mondiaux que par le passé.

Adverbial use in a complex business context.

The athlete is aiming for a faster time in the next race.

L'athlète vise un temps plus rapide lors de la prochaine course.

Adjective modifying 'time'.

We must implement a faster-to-market strategy for our new product.

Nous devons mettre en œuvre une stratégie de mise sur le marché plus rapide pour notre nouveau produit.

Compound adjective 'faster-to-market'.

The ice caps are melting faster than any previous climate model predicted.

Les calottes glaciaires fondent plus vite que ne le prévoyait tout modèle climatique précédent.

Adverbial use with a complex comparison.

A faster turnaround time is essential for customer satisfaction.

Un délai d'exécution plus rapide est essentiel pour la satisfaction du client.

Adjective modifying 'turnaround time'.

The software update provides a faster and more intuitive user experience.

La mise à jour du logiciel offre une expérience utilisateur plus rapide et plus intuitive.

Parallel adjectives 'faster' and 'more intuitive'.

He was fast-tracked to a management position because of his performance.

Il a été promu rapidement à un poste de direction en raison de ses performances.

Verb 'fast-tracked' (related to faster).

The faster we adapt to these changes, the more successful we will be.

Plus vite nous nous adapterons à ces changements, plus nous réussirons.

The... the... construction with 'adapt'.

The rapid proliferation of AI is happening faster than ethical frameworks can be established.

La prolifération rapide de l'IA se produit plus vite que les cadres éthiques ne peuvent être établis.

Adverbial use in a high-level academic context.

Societal change is often faster in urban centers than in rural areas.

Le changement sociétal est souvent plus rapide dans les centres urbains que dans les zones rurales.

Adjective use in a sociological comparison.

The heart rate returned to baseline faster in the experimental group.

La fréquence cardiaque est revenue à la ligne de base plus rapidement dans le groupe expérimental.

Adverbial use in a scientific report.

The faster-paced narrative of the second act keeps the audience engaged.

Le récit au rythme plus rapide du deuxième acte maintient l'intérêt du public.

Compound adjective 'faster-paced'.

He argued that a faster transition to renewable energy is economically viable.

Il a soutenu qu'une transition plus rapide vers les énergies renouvelables est économiquement viable.

Adjective modifying 'transition'.

The data suggests that cognitive decline may happen faster in certain populations.

Les données suggèrent que le déclin cognitif peut se produire plus rapidement dans certaines populations.

Adverbial use in a medical context.

The faster-than-light travel remains a staple of science fiction.

Le voyage plus rapide que la lumière reste un élément de base de la science-fiction.

Compound adjective 'faster-than-light'.

The news cycle moves faster today, leaving little room for deep analysis.

Le cycle de l'actualité avance plus vite aujourd'hui, laissant peu de place à une analyse approfondie.

Adverbial use in a media critique.

The existential dread of a faster-approaching future is a common theme in his poetry.

L'angoisse existentielle d'un avenir qui approche plus vite est un thème commun dans sa poésie.

Compound adjective 'faster-approaching'.

The algorithm was designed to process queries faster by orders of magnitude.

L'algorithme a été conçu pour traiter les requêtes plus rapidement de plusieurs ordres de grandeur.

Adverbial use with technical modifiers.

The faster the rate of entropy, the sooner the system reaches equilibrium.

Plus le taux d'entropie est rapide, plus tôt le système atteint l'équilibre.

The... the... construction in a scientific context.

He noted that the faster-than-expected erosion of civil liberties was a cause for concern.

Il a noté que l'érosion des libertés civiles, plus rapide que prévu, était une source d'inquiétude.

Compound adjective 'faster-than-expected'.

The faster-moving parts of the machine require more frequent lubrication.

Les pièces de la machine qui se déplacent plus vite nécessitent une lubrification plus fréquente.

Compound adjective 'faster-moving'.

The narrative's faster tempo in the final chapters creates a sense of urgency.

Le tempo plus rapide du récit dans les derniers chapitres crée un sentiment d'urgence.

Adjective modifying 'tempo'.

They explored the implications of a faster-evolving virus on global health.

Ils ont exploré les implications d'un virus à l'évolution plus rapide sur la santé mondiale.

Compound adjective 'faster-evolving'.

The faster we consume resources, the more precarious our ecological standing becomes.

Plus vite nous consommons les ressources, plus notre position écologique devient précaire.

The... the... construction with complex adjectives.

Common Collocations

much faster

even faster

faster and faster

faster than ever

slightly faster

grow faster

move faster

work faster

faster pace

faster rate

Common Phrases

Faster than a speeding bullet

— Extremely fast. Often used hyperbolically.

He finished the report faster than a speeding bullet.

The faster, the better

— Used to say that speed is the most important thing. The sooner it happens, the more desirable it is.

When can you finish? The faster, the better.

Think faster

— To process information or come up with ideas more quickly. Often a command.

You need to think faster if you want to win this game.

Get faster

— To improve one's speed over time. Often used in sports.

I'm training every day to get faster.

Faster-than-light

— Exceeding the speed of light. Primarily used in science and sci-fi.

Faster-than-light travel is still impossible.

Faster-to-market

— Getting a product ready for sale in a shorter time. Business term.

Our faster-to-market strategy gave us an edge.

A faster way

— A more efficient method or route. Very common in daily life.

Is there a faster way to get to the airport?

Faster turnaround

— Completing a task and returning the result more quickly. Business term.

The lab promised a faster turnaround for the test results.

Faster track

— A quicker path to a goal or promotion. Often used for careers.

She is on a faster track to becoming a partner.

Faster and faster

— At a continuously increasing speed. Describes acceleration.

The heart beats faster and faster as the tension rises.

Often Confused With

faster vs sooner

Faster refers to speed; sooner refers to time. 'I'll get there faster' (higher speed) vs 'I'll get there sooner' (earlier time).

faster vs quicker

Very similar, but quicker often implies a short duration or a prompt response rather than just velocity.

faster vs fastest

Faster compares two things; fastest compares three or more.

Idioms & Expressions

"Faster than you can say Jack Robinson"

— Extremely quickly; almost instantly. An old-fashioned but still understood idiom.

He disappeared faster than you can say Jack Robinson.

informal/old-fashioned

"A faster buck"

— Money made quickly, often through dishonest or risky means. Related to 'fast buck'.

He's always looking for a faster buck instead of working hard.

informal

"Life in the fast lane"

— A very busy, exciting, and often stressful way of life. (Uses 'fast' but related to 'faster').

After moving to New York, she's really living life in the fast lane.

informal

"Fast-track something"

— To accelerate the progress of a project or person. (Verb form).

The government decided to fast-track the new law.

neutral/business

"Pull a fast one"

— To trick or deceive someone. (Uses 'fast' but related to the concept of speed).

Don't try to pull a fast one on me; I know what you're doing.

informal

"Fast and furious"

— Happening very quickly and with a lot of energy or intensity.

The questions came fast and furious during the press conference.

neutral

"Hard and fast"

— Fixed and unchangeable. (Often used for rules).

There are no hard and fast rules for this game.

neutral

"Fast friends"

— People who become very close friends very quickly. (Uses 'fast' in an older sense of 'firm').

They met at camp and became fast friends.

neutral

"Fast asleep"

— Completely and deeply asleep.

The baby was fast asleep in the crib.

neutral

"Hold fast"

— To remain firm or steadfast in a belief or position.

You must hold fast to your principles.

literary/formal

Easily Confused

faster vs fastly

Learners think adverbs must end in -ly.

Fastly is not a standard English word. Faster is both the adjective and adverb comparative.

He ran faster (not fastly).

faster vs more fast

Learners apply the 'more + adjective' rule to a short word.

Short words like 'fast' use the -er suffix. 'More fast' is grammatically incorrect.

This is faster (not more fast).

faster vs quick

Synonyms with subtle differences.

Faster is usually about velocity; quick is often about the time it takes to start or finish a task.

A faster car vs. a quick snack.

faster vs rapid

Synonyms with different registers.

Faster is common and neutral; rapid is more formal and often describes a rate of change.

Faster internet vs. rapid population growth.

faster vs soon

Confusion between speed and time.

Faster is about how you move; soon is about when something happens.

Come here faster! vs. I will see you soon.

Sentence Patterns

[Noun] is faster than [Noun].

A car is faster than a bike.

[Subject] [Verb] faster than [Object].

She runs faster than her brother.

The faster..., the [comparative]...

The faster you go, the sooner you arrive.

[Noun] is much faster than [Noun].

The new system is much faster than the old one.

[Subject] is getting faster at [Gerund].

He is getting faster at typing.

A faster-to-[Noun] [Noun]

A faster-to-market strategy.

[Noun] is happening faster than [Clause].

Change is happening faster than we can adapt.

The faster-than-[Adjective] [Noun]

The faster-than-expected recovery.

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

How to Use It

frequency

Extremely high in both spoken and written English.

Common Mistakes

more faster → faster
You should not use 'more' with one-syllable adjectives that already have the '-er' suffix.
fastly → faster
'Fastly' is not a word. 'Faster' is the correct adverbial comparative.
My car is faster than you. → My car is faster than yours.
You must compare a car to another car, not to a person.
He is the faster of the three. → He is the fastest of the three.
Use 'fastest' when comparing more than two things.
I will arrive faster. → I will arrive sooner.
When talking about an earlier time, 'sooner' is usually better than 'faster'.

Tips

Avoid Double Comparatives

Never say 'more faster'. The '-er' ending already means 'more'. Just say 'faster'.

Faster vs. Quicker

Use 'faster' for speed (a faster car) and 'quicker' for time (a quicker way).

Emphasis

Use 'much faster' to show a big difference in speed. It sounds very natural.

Formal Alternatives

In formal essays, try using 'more rapid' or 'accelerated' instead of 'faster' for variety.

The 'Than' Cue

When you hear 'faster', listen for 'than' to find out what is being compared.

Technology

In tech, 'faster' almost always means 'better'. It's a key marketing word.

Faster and Faster

Use this phrase to describe something that is speeding up over time.

Stress

Always stress the first part: FAS-ter. The second part is very short.

Like with Like

Make sure you compare two similar things. 'My car is faster than yours', not 'than you'.

Practice

Try comparing things you see every day to get used to the word 'faster'.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of the 'ER' at the end of 'fastER' as standing for 'Extra Rapid'. If something is fastER, it is Extra Rapid compared to something else.

Visual Association

Imagine a race between a turtle and a rabbit. The rabbit is 'fast', but if a rocket zooms past, the rocket is 'faster'. Visualize the rocket with the word 'FASTER' written on its side.

Word Web

Speed Quick Rapid Velocity Accelerate Than More Efficiency

Challenge

Try to find three things in your room. Compare them using 'faster'. For example: 'My phone is faster than my laptop.' Write them down and say them out loud.

Word Origin

The word 'faster' comes from the Old English 'fæst', which originally meant 'firm', 'fixed', or 'secure'. The sense of 'quick' or 'rapid' developed in the 13th century, likely from the idea of running 'firmly' or 'strongly'. The comparative suffix '-er' is of Proto-Germanic origin.

Original meaning: Firmly, fixedly, or securely.

Germanic

Cultural Context

Be careful when telling someone to work 'faster' as it can be perceived as rude or overly demanding in some cultures.

English speakers often value efficiency, so 'faster' is a very positive word in business and technology contexts.

The Olympic Motto: Citius (Faster) Superman: 'Faster than a speeding bullet' The 'Fast & Furious' movie franchise

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Transportation

A faster train
Drive faster
Faster route
Faster commute

Technology

Faster processor
Faster internet
Faster downloads
Faster charging

Sports

Run faster
Faster lap time
Faster swimmer
Faster tempo

Business

Faster growth
Faster turnaround
Faster results
Faster-to-market

Daily Life

Work faster
Eat faster
Get ready faster
Think faster

Conversation Starters

"Do you think life is moving faster now than it was ten years ago?"

"Which is faster for your commute: the bus, the train, or driving?"

"If you could have a faster computer or a faster car, which would you choose?"

"What is the fastest way to learn a new language, in your opinion?"

"Do you prefer a faster-paced movie or a slow, thoughtful one?"

Journal Prompts

Describe a time when you had to work much faster than usual to meet a deadline. How did you feel?

Write about a technology that has made your life faster. Is this change always positive?

Compare two hobbies you have. Which one allows you to see results faster?

If you could make one thing in the world move faster, what would it be and why?

Reflect on the phrase 'The faster you go, the more you miss.' Do you agree with this?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

No, 'more faster' is a double comparative and is always grammatically incorrect in standard English. You should simply use 'faster'.

Yes, 'faster' is the comparative form of the adverb 'fast'. For example, 'He ran faster than me.' You do not need to add '-ly'.

They are often interchangeable, but 'faster' usually refers to physical speed or velocity, while 'quicker' often refers to something taking a short amount of time or being done promptly.

No, 'fastly' is not used in modern standard English. The adverb form of 'fast' is 'fast', and its comparative is 'faster'.

Use 'faster' when you are talking about the speed of movement. Use 'sooner' when you are talking about an earlier point in time.

You can use modifiers like 'much faster', 'far faster', 'significantly faster', or 'even faster'.

Yes, it is often used for things like 'faster growth', 'faster learning', or 'faster processing'.

It is introduced at A1 for simple comparisons and mastered at A2 for more varied uses.

The superlative is 'fastest', used when comparing three or more things.

No, 'faster' is only an adjective or an adverb. 'Fast' can be a noun (meaning a period of not eating), but 'faster' is not its comparative noun form.