Greetings! If you’re looking to learn how to express the idea of “hurry up” in British English, you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, we will explore both formal and informal ways to convey this sense of urgency. We’ll also touch on some regional variations where necessary. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Formal Expressions:
When it comes to formal situations, it’s important to use polite and professional language. However, conveying a sense of urgency while maintaining politeness is possible. Here are some formal ways to say “hurry up” in British English:
- “Please expedite.” This phrase is commonly used in professional settings, such as offices or business environments. It subtly conveys the need for quick action without being too direct.
- “Could you please accelerate the process?” This phrase politely asks the person to speed up their activities or tasks. It’s ideal for situations where you don’t want to sound too pushy but still need things to move faster.
- “I kindly request your prompt attention.” This expression is often used in written correspondence, such as formal emails or letters. It conveys urgency by emphasizing the need for immediate attention to the matter at hand.
Informal Expressions:
Informal situations allow for a more relaxed and casual tone. When you’re interacting with friends, family, or colleagues on a friendly basis, you can use these informal expressions to convey the sense of “hurry up” in a less formal manner:
- “C’mon, let’s get a move on!” This phrase is commonly used among friends or peers when you want them to hurry up. It implies a sense of enthusiasm and friendly urgency.
- “Hurry it up, will you?” This direct phrase is slightly more assertive but still maintains a fairly friendly tone. It’s often used playfully or in a light-hearted manner.
- “Let’s pick up the pace!” When you want someone to hurry up in a less direct way, this expression can be used to encourage swift action. It conveys a sense of motivation and urgency without sounding rude.
Regional Variations:
While British English is generally standardized across the United Kingdom, regional variations can sometimes influence the choice of words or expressions. Here are a few regional variations of how to say “hurry up” in different parts of the UK:
In Scotland: “Haste ye, noo!”
In Liverpool: “C’mon, leg it!”
In Wales: “Brysia dy hunan!” (which translates to “Hurry yourself!”)
Keep in mind that these regional variations are not commonly used across the entire country, but rather reflect local dialects and cultural nuances. It’s always best to use the standard expressions mentioned earlier unless you’re in a specific regional context.
Examples:
Let’s put these expressions into context with a few examples:
Formal example: “Dear Mr. Smith, I kindly request your prompt attention to the matter. Please expedite the processing of my application. Thank you.”
Note: Suitable for formal emails or letters.Informal example: “Hey, we’re running late! C’mon, let’s get a move on!”
Note: Suitable for friendly or casual conversations.
Remember that context and your relationship with the person are important factors when choosing between formal and informal expressions. Always consider the situation and choose the appropriate tone.
I hope this guide has provided you with a comprehensive understanding of how to say “hurry up” in British English. Whether you’re in a formal or informal setting, you now have a range of expressions to convey your sense of urgency. Remember to stay polite in formal situations and adapt your language accordingly based on the relationship with the person. Happy hurrying!
