As Soon As Possible
The phrase “as soon as possible” is a common idiom used to convey urgency and the desire for something to be completed or addressed without unnecessary delay. In contemporary usage, it’s often abbreviated as ‘ASAP’. While it appears simple, its use in literature and everyday communication reveals nuanced ways we perceive time, prioritize tasks, and express commitment.
Origin of “As Soon As Possible”
The first documented appearance of the phrase “as soon as possible” in print appears in Annis G. Thompson’s 1954 book, The Greatest Airlift. The text reads, “Most drops were made on an ASAP or ‘as soon as possible’ basis.” This context—dealing with the logistical demands of an airlift operation—suggests the phrase arose from practical necessity, a need to complete tasks quickly within a limited time frame. The subsequent rise in popularity of the abbreviation ‘ASAP’ reflects a broader cultural emphasis on efficiency and immediacy. Although the phrase first appeared in print in 1954, the idea of acting swiftly existed long before, appearing in many earlier texts in various forms.
Examples in Literature
Example #1
“Can’t Go Back” by Futuristic
Get back to you as soon as possible
In this age it’s hard to be responsible
With all of these obstacles I’ve been through
Trying to show you that I still got time for you
Now you’ve been tripping when nothing’s wrong
Acting like we don’t have something strong
You used to sit in the studio watch me
You probably see me do a hundred songs
I’ve been gone but I do that for both of us
You should be happy when these people notice us
Lining up shows for us
They do the most for us
Here, “as soon as possible” functions not simply as a logistical statement, but as a promise interwoven with regret and justification. The speaker acknowledges distance or absence, yet immediately attempts to mitigate the impact by assuring a swift return to communication. This demonstrates how the phrase can serve as a relational tool, expressing commitment despite challenges. The urgency is not just about time, but about repairing or maintaining a connection.
Example #2
“Answering Service” by Gerald Levert
Hello this is Angela
I’m sorry I’m unable to answer this call right now
So please at the sound of the beep
Leave your name and number
And I will contact you as soon as possible
In this context, “as soon as possible” is a standard professional courtesy that also implies unavailability. It politely acknowledges the caller while setting an expectation for a delayed response. The phrase buffers the conversation, manages expectations, and prevents frustration. It shows how language can soften potentially negative interactions.
Example #3
Love Stories: The Relationships of Four Women by Cordelia Alexander
Ba‑Kari was excited, and he grabbed and hugged Tracy. “I have a morning news show to do. It’s about my book, and they want me to talk about my new book.”
Tracy said, “That’s great. So when are you leaving for New York?”
“I have to leave as soon as possible. I need to prepare before Monday morning for the 6 a.m. news show, so I have to go tonight.”
Tracy looked a little upset, but she said, “That’s great, baby. I’m happy for you.”
Here, the phrase highlights a conflict between personal ambition and relational needs. While Ba‑Kari expresses urgency in pursuing his opportunity, the vague “as soon as possible” masks a lack of concrete planning, contributing to Tracy’s subtle disappointment. This example showcases how the phrase can be used to downplay the disruption caused by one’s actions or to avoid a direct confrontation about scheduling or priorities.
Example #4
The Village Witch Doctor by Amos Tutuola
‘What a nice man you are, Ajaiyi,’ the witch doctor said cheerfully. ‘I know you’re a quick worker, always taking action promptly! Good for you to have laid the three rams on the grave as soon as possible. Remember that you will soon become “Money Man.” But you must not forget to collect the empty sacks from the grave in the morning. That is all. Return home now; the night is dark.’
In this context, “as soon as possible” reinforces manipulation and control. The witch doctor praises Ajaiyi’s speed not out of genuine appreciation, but to encourage further obedience. The phrase becomes a tool for exploitation, linking swift action to an imagined reward. This illustrates how language can be twisted to serve ulterior motives.
Examples in Sentences
Example #1: “The manager didn’t care if there was a shortage of the products. He just wanted to meet the target as soon as possible.”
Example #2: “Once you get the test results, you should consult a doctor as soon as possible.”
Example #3: “Please inform the client of the shipment date as soon as possible.”
Example #4: “The detectives wanted to catch the criminal as soon as possible.”
Example #5: “There was a gas leak in the building. Hence, the employees were ordered to vacate the building as soon as possible.”
Beyond the Literal: Nuances and Implications
While seemingly straightforward, the phrase “as soon as possible” rarely pins down a specific moment. It often represents a negotiation between the ideal of immediacy and real‑world constraints. The ambiguity grants flexibility but can also lead to misunderstandings. For example, a doctor saying “We’ll operate as soon as possible” implies a scheduled procedure after necessary preparation, whereas a friend saying “I’ll call you as soon as possible” could mean anything from a few minutes to several days. Recognizing these subtleties is essential for clear communication. Moreover, overusing the phrase can dilute its impact, turning it into a hollow platitude.
Ultimately, “as soon as possible” is powerful because it reflects our relationship with time—our drive for efficiency, our awareness of limits, and our need to balance competing priorities. It shows that time is not just a measurement, but a social and relational construct.