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presto

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: //ˈprɛstoʊ//

KK: /ˈprɛstoʊ/

adjective
Definition

Used to describe something that happens suddenly or quickly, as if by magic.


Example

The magician waved his wand, and presto, the rabbit appeared out of the hat!


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you see how he made that cake presto?
Sloth B
I know, right? It was like magic!
Sloth A
Yeah, he just whipped it up so presto that I was amazed.
Sloth B
I wish I could cook like that — it would save so much time!

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
quick
swift
instant
Antonyms
slow
gradual
leisurely
adverb
Definition

In a very quick manner, often used to indicate something happening suddenly or immediately, as if by magic.


Example

With a wave of her wand, she said 'presto' and the rabbit appeared in the hat.


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you see how he finished that trick?
Sloth B
Yeah, it was like presto! One moment he was struggling, and then he nailed it.
Sloth A
I know, right? It's amazing how some people can perform like that so effortlessly.
Sloth B
noun
Definition

A term used in music to indicate that a passage should be played very quickly.


Example

The conductor instructed the orchestra to play the final movement presto for a lively finish.


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you hear that new song with the presto section in it?
Sloth B
Yeah, it really adds a fun twist to the whole piece!
Sloth A
I love how it transitions so quickly into that presto part.
Sloth B
Root Explanation

Presto comes from the Italian word 'presto', meaning quick or prompt. It is often used in music to indicate a fast tempo.

Memory Tip

Think of the Italian word for quick — 'presto' helps you remember that it means something done quickly.

Visually Confused Words
uprest
restow
restio
priest
uprestore
rest
protestor
priestdom
Is this page helpful?
Totally! It's like they have magic in their hands.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
quickly
swiftly
immediately
Antonyms
slowly
gradually
leisurely
Exactly! It keeps you on your toes while listening.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
allegro
vivace
brisk
Antonyms
largo
adagio
slow