Japanese · Adjectives
速い
hayai
Fast / Quick
Beginneradjective
Definition
Describes speed. The same pronunciation 早い (hayai) means early in time. Context and kanji distinguish the two meanings.
Example
新幹線はとても速いです。
The bullet train is very fast.
Etymology
'速い' (hayai) comes from the root '速' (soku), which has roots in ancient Japanese describing speed or quickness. It reflects a cultural appreciation for efficiency.
How & Where It’s Used
'速い' is used broadly in both spoken and written contexts, often applied to transportation, processes, or reactions, without regional variations.
Literary Heritage
This term can be found in modern literature and poetry emphasizing the fleeting nature of time or events.