Expede vs Expedite: Meaning And Differences

When it comes to getting things done quickly, we often hear the terms “expede” and “expedite” being used interchangeably. However, are they really the same thing? In this article, we will explore the differences between these two words and determine which one is the proper term to use in different contexts.

The proper word to use between “expede” and “expedite” depends on the context in which it is used. Generally, “expedite” is the more commonly used term and is the proper word to use in most situations. It means to make something happen more quickly or efficiently. On the other hand, “expede” is a less common term that means to facilitate or hasten a process or action.

Now that we have a better understanding of the difference between “expede” and “expedite,” let’s delve deeper into the nuances of each word and explore when it is appropriate to use them.

Define Expede

Expede is a verb that means to hasten or accelerate a process. It is a term that is not commonly used in everyday language, but it is still relevant in certain contexts. The word expede has its roots in Latin, with the word expedire, which means to free from entanglement or to make ready.

Define Expedite

Expedite is also a verb that means to make something happen more quickly or efficiently. Unlike expede, expedite is a term that is more commonly used in everyday language. The word expedite comes from the Latin word expedire as well, but it has a slightly different meaning. Expedite means to facilitate or speed up a process.

While both expede and expedite have similar meanings, there are subtle differences between the two. Expede is more about accelerating a process, while expedite is more about making it happen more efficiently.

Here is a table that summarizes the difference between the two terms:

Term	Meaning
Expede	To hasten or accelerate a process
Expedite	To make something happen more quickly or efficiently

How To Properly Use The Words In A Sentence

When it comes to writing in English, choosing the right word can make all the difference. Even words that seem similar can have subtle differences in meaning that can change the tone or impact of a sentence. This is certainly true of the words “expede” and “expedite.” Here’s how to use each one correctly:

How To Use “Expede” In A Sentence

The word “expede” is not commonly used in modern English, but it does have a specific meaning. Generally, “expede” means to facilitate or hasten something. Here are a few examples of how you might use “expede” in a sentence:

• The new software will expede the process of data entry.
• We need to expede the shipment if we want it to arrive on time.
• The manager promised to expede the approval process for the project.

As you can see, “expede” is often used in the context of making something faster or more efficient. It’s a good word to use when you want to emphasize the importance of speed or timeliness.

How To Use “Expedite” In A Sentence

“Expedite” is a more common word than “expede,” and it has a slightly different meaning. While “expede” generally refers to making something faster or more efficient, “expedite” specifically means to speed up a process or make it happen more quickly. Here are a few examples of how you might use “expedite” in a sentence:

• The boss asked me to expedite the report so that it would be ready for the meeting.
• The airline offered to expedite our baggage claim so that we wouldn’t miss our connecting flight.
• The contractor promised to expedite the construction process to meet the deadline.

As you can see, “expedite” is often used in the context of meeting a deadline or getting something done quickly. It’s a good word to use when you want to emphasize the urgency of a situation.

More Examples Of Expede & Expedite Used In Sentences

In order to understand the difference between expede and expedite, it is important to look at examples of how each word is used in a sentence. Below are some examples of using expede and expedite in a sentence:

Examples Of Using Expede In A Sentence

• The company’s decision to expede the project led to a successful launch.
• Our goal is to expede the process of getting our product to market.
• He was able to expede the shipping process by using a faster method.
• The team worked hard to expede the completion of the project.
• The manager promised to expede the approval process for the new policy.
• Her ability to expede the paperwork impressed her boss.
• The contractor was able to expede the construction of the building.
• It is important to expede the payment process in order to avoid late fees.
• They were able to expede the resolution of the issue by working together.
• The company’s decision to expede the hiring process led to finding the perfect candidate.

Examples Of Using Expedite In A Sentence

• The company used a courier service to expedite the delivery of the package.
• We need to expedite the process of getting the necessary permits.
• The manager promised to expedite the resolution of the customer’s complaint.
• She was able to expedite the process of getting the loan approved.
• The team worked late nights in order to expedite the completion of the project.
• He was able to expedite the repair of the machine by ordering parts in advance.
• The company decided to expedite the launch of the new product.
• They were able to expedite the hiring process by conducting interviews via video chat.
• The government is working to expedite the processing of visa applications.
• She asked the airline to expedite her request for a refund.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

When it comes to using the words “expede” and “expedite,” many people tend to interchange them, often resulting in grammatical errors. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

Using “Expede” Instead Of “Expedite”

One of the most common mistakes people make is using “expede” instead of “expedite.” “Expede” is not a valid English word, and using it in place of “expedite” can result in confusion and ambiguity.

For example, instead of saying “I need to expedite the delivery of this package,” some people might say “I need to expede the delivery of this package,” which is incorrect and can lead to misunderstandings.

Using “Expedite” In The Wrong Context

Another mistake people make is using “expedite” in the wrong context. “Expedite” means to speed up or hasten a process, but it is often misused to mean “complete quickly” or “prioritize.”

For instance, saying “I need to expedite this report by the end of the day” implies that the report is already in progress, and you want to speed up the process. However, saying “I need to expedite this report for the meeting tomorrow” implies that you want to prioritize the report over other tasks.

Offering Tips To Avoid Making These Mistakes

To avoid making these mistakes, it is essential to understand the correct usage of “expede” and “expedite.” Here are some tips to help you:

• Always use “expedite” instead of “expede.”
• Make sure you are using “expedite” in the right context, i.e., to speed up a process.
• If you want to prioritize a task, use a different word like “prioritize” or “fast-track.”
• Proofread your writing to ensure that you are using the correct word.

By following these tips, you can avoid common mistakes and use “expedite” correctly in your writing and speech.

Context Matters

When it comes to choosing between the words “expede” and “expedite,” context matters. While both words are related to speeding up a process or making something happen more quickly, there are subtle differences in their usage that can affect which one is the best choice for a particular situation.

Examples Of Different Contexts

Here are a few examples of different contexts and how the choice between “expede” and “expedite” might change:

Legal Documents

In legal documents, the choice between “expede” and “expedite” can depend on the specific context of the document. “Expede” is a more archaic term that is rarely used in modern legal writing, but it may be appropriate in certain contexts where a more formal or traditional tone is desired. “Expedite,” on the other hand, is a more common term that is generally preferred in modern legal writing.

Business Communications

In business communications, the choice between “expede” and “expedite” may depend on the level of formality or urgency of the situation. “Expedite” is a more standard and versatile term that can be used in a variety of contexts, from requesting a faster response to a business proposal to expediting the delivery of a product or service. “Expede,” on the other hand, may be more appropriate in situations where a more formal or traditional tone is desired.

Medical Terminology

In medical terminology, the choice between “expede” and “expedite” may depend on the specific context of the procedure or treatment being discussed. “Expede” is a more archaic term that is rarely used in modern medical writing, but it may be appropriate in certain contexts where a more formal or traditional tone is desired. “Expedite,” on the other hand, is a more common term that is generally preferred in modern medical writing.

Ultimately, the choice between “expede” and “expedite” depends on the specific context in which they are being used. While both words have similar meanings, their connotations and usage can vary depending on the situation. By understanding the nuances of these words, writers can make more informed decisions about which one to use in a given context.

Exceptions To The Rules

While the rules for using expede and expedite are generally straightforward, there are exceptions where these rules may not apply. In such cases, it is important to understand the context in which these words are being used to ensure proper usage. Here are some exceptions to consider:

1. Legal Jargon

In legal jargon, the word “expede” is often used to refer to the process of expediting a legal case. This is because “expede” is a term that is commonly used in legal circles to describe the process of moving a case through the court system quickly. In this context, “expede” is used as a verb, and it is often used in conjunction with the word “motion”. For example, a lawyer might file a motion to expede a case, which would mean that they are requesting that the court move the case through the system more quickly than it normally would.

2. Regional Differences

Another exception to consider is that there may be regional differences in how these words are used. For example, in some parts of the world, the word “expede” may be more commonly used than “expedite”. In these cases, it is important to understand the context in which the word is being used to ensure proper usage. Additionally, there may be certain industries or professions where one word is more commonly used than the other. For example, in the shipping industry, the word “expedite” is often used to refer to the process of shipping something quickly.

3. Idiomatic Expressions

Finally, there are certain idiomatic expressions where the rules for using “expede” and “expedite” may not apply. For example, the phrase “time is of the essence” is an idiomatic expression that means that time is critical or essential to a particular situation. In this case, it would be incorrect to use the word “expede” or “expedite”. Instead, you would simply use the phrase “time is of the essence” to convey the same meaning.

Understanding these exceptions to the rules for using “expede” and “expedite” is important for ensuring proper usage in any context. By being aware of these exceptions, you can avoid common mistakes and communicate more effectively in your writing.

Practice Exercises

Now that you have a better understanding of the differences between expede and expedite, it’s time to put that knowledge into practice. Below are some exercises to help you improve your understanding and use of these two words in sentences.

Exercise 1

Choose the correct word (expede or expedite) to complete each sentence:

1. The company is looking for ways to _________ the shipping process.
2. Please _________ your response to our request as soon as possible.
3. Our goal is to _________ the completion of the project by the end of the month.
4. Can you _________ the delivery of the package to tomorrow?

Answer Key:

1. expedite
2. expedite
3. expede
4. expedite

Exercise 2

Write a sentence using either expede or expedite to fill in the blank:

1. The company is looking for ways to _________ the hiring process.
2. Please _________ the process of getting a passport.
3. Our goal is to _________ the production of the new product line.
4. Can you _________ the resolution of the issue?

Answer Key:

1. expedite
2. expedite
3. expede
4. expedite

Conclusion

After reviewing the differences between expede and expedite, it is clear that these two words are often confused and misused. Expede, while a valid word, is rarely used in modern English and is often replaced by expedite. Expedite, on the other hand, is a commonly used word that means to speed up or make something happen faster. It is important to use the correct word in order to effectively communicate your message and avoid confusion.

When it comes to grammar and language use, it is always important to continue learning and improving your skills. Whether you are a native speaker or learning English as a second language, there is always room for improvement. By expanding your vocabulary and understanding of grammar rules, you can become a more effective communicator and writer.

Key Takeaways:

• Expede is a valid word, but is rarely used in modern English.
• Expedite is the commonly used word that means to speed up or make something happen faster.
• Using the correct word is important to effectively communicate your message and avoid confusion.
• Continuing to learn about grammar and language use can help you become a more effective communicator and writer.