You use "post haste" in a sentence to indicate that something needs to happen or is happening very quickly or immediately.
Understanding "Post Haste"
"Post haste" is an idiom that means with great speed or without delay. It is often used in contexts where urgency is required. It typically functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb, describing how an action is performed.
Think of it as a more formal or slightly archaic way of saying "immediately" or "as quickly as possible."
Using "Post Haste" in Sentences
Here are some examples demonstrating how "post haste" is used, incorporating the provided references:
- Referring to arrival or delivery: Someone or something is expected to arrive quickly.
- Reference Example: "It should be coming posthaste." This sentence implies that the item or person is expected to arrive very soon, likely having been sent quickly.
- Describing being summoned or called quickly: Used when someone is called to a place or situation urgently.
- Reference Example: "He was in evening dress, having been summoned posthaste from the theater." This shows that he was called away from the theater with great urgency, necessitating his immediate departure.
- Describing leaving or moving quickly: Used when someone is hurrying to a different location or activity.
- Reference Example: "He was thinking on ending the interview as quickly and conveniently as he might, and hurrying posthaste to those speculative ones." This illustrates someone planning to finish one task quickly so they can rush immediately to another activity.
Practical Examples
Here are a few more ways you might use "post haste":
- The package needs to be delivered post haste.
- Send the updated report to my office post haste.
- She rushed post haste to the hospital after hearing the news.
Structure and Usage
"Post haste" is usually placed after the verb it modifies or at the end of the clause.
| Usage Type | Example incorporating reference | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Arrival/Delivery | It should be coming posthaste. | Indicates speedy delivery/arrival. |
| Urgent Summons | He was summoned posthaste from the theater. | Describes being called away quickly. |
| Hurrying to a Place | ...and hurrying posthaste to those speculative ones. | Details moving quickly towards a destination. |
| General Urgency | Please send the document post haste. | Requests something be sent without delay. |
Why Use "Post Haste"?
Choosing "post haste" can add a touch of formality, emphasis, or even a slightly dramatic tone compared to simply saying "quickly" or "immediately." It highlights the urgency of the action.
Using "post haste" in a sentence is straightforward: place it where an adverbial phrase describing speed would naturally fit, typically after the verb.
