Definition & Meaning of "prompt"

to prompt

VERB

to encourage someone to do or say something

Ditransitive: to prompt sb to do sth

Example

The teacher used thought-provoking questions to prompt students to participate actively in class discussions.

During the interview, the journalist prompted the interviewee to share personal anecdotes.

to make something happen

Transitive: to prompt an action or change

Example

The news of the imminent hurricane prompted widespread evacuation efforts in coastal regions.

The success of the grassroots movement prompted increased attention from policymakers.

to assist someone by suggesting the next words or actions they may have forgotten or not fully learned

Transitive: to prompt sb

Example

During the play rehearsal, the director prompted the actor who had momentarily forgotten their lines.

The teacher prompted the shy student during the oral presentation, helping them recall key points they had prepared.

prompt

ADJECTIVE

done or happening without delay

on time

punctual

timely

Example

She appreciated his prompt reply to her email.

The service at the restaurant was impressively prompt.

acting or done without delay

immediate

instant

instantaneous

quick

straightaway

Example

She gave a prompt reply to the urgent email.

The firefighters were prompt in reaching the scene of the blaze.

(of a person) ready and willing to act quickly

Example

The prompt student always had their hand raised to answer questions.

The prompt employee completed tasks efficiently and on time.

Prompt

NOUN

a word or phrase that an actor says to signal another actor to begin acting or say a line

What is a "prompt"?

A prompt is a word or phrase spoken by an actor to signal another actor to start their dialogue or action. It serves as a cue for the other actor to remember their part and continue the performance seamlessly. Prompts are used to maintain the flow of the performance and prevent interruptions due to forgotten lines or missed cues.

a symbol, message, or signal on a computer screen that indicates the system is ready to receive input or commands from the user

Example

In a command-line interface, the blinking cursor serves as the prompt, indicating that the system is ready for user input.

After launching a software program, the graphical user interface may display a prompt, asking the user to open or create a new file.