Act fast

Definition

An urgent instruction to take immediate action before an opportunity disappears. Emphasizes speed and creates pressure to make quick decisions.

Etymology

This imperative phrase emerged in early 20th century American advertising, particularly in mail-order catalogs and radio commercials. It condensed longer urgency appeals into two punchy words that became a advertising staple.

Kelly Says

The phrase 'act fast' actually slows down rational decision-making by triggering our fight-or-flight response, making us more likely to act on emotion rather than logic. It's become so overused that some consumers now view it as a red flag for potential scams.

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