The phrase "fast tracked" refers to the process of accelerating or expediting a project or goal. It is spelled /fæst trækt/, with the first syllable pronounced like the word "fast" and the second syllable pronounced like the word "tracked." The /æ/ vowel sound represents the "a" sound in "cat," while the /t/ and /k/ sounds are pronounced distinctly, with the tongue making contact with the roof of the mouth for the former and the back of the tongue making contact with the soft palate for the latter.
Fast-tracked is an adjective used to describe a process, project, or individual that is expedited or accelerated in order to achieve a quick outcome, bypassing or minimizing certain stages, steps, or formalities that are usually required or expected. The term originates from the concept of tracks or paths along which progress is measured, with fast-tracked suggesting a rapid advancement along the path.
When something is fast-tracked, it implies that its development, approval, implementation, or completion is prioritized in order to save time, meet urgent demands, or overcome bureaucratic delays. This could involve streamlining bureaucratic procedures, reducing paperwork, or facilitating quicker decision-making. Fast-tracking often signifies a sense of urgency, where shortcuts or simplified processes are employed without compromising the quality or legitimacy of the final outcome.
The objective behind fast-tracking is often to expedite progress, enhance efficiency, and eliminate unnecessary bottlenecks or red tape that can impede time-sensitive endeavors. Projects or tasks that are fast-tracked are usually high-priority or critical, warranting special attention and swifter execution. However, it is essential to strike a balance between speeding up the process and ensuring thoroughness, as there may be inherent risks or downsides in bypassing certain checkpoints or formalities.
Overall, fast-tracked implies an accelerated pathway to achieving an objective, representing the expeditious and efficient handling of a task, project, or individual in order to meet pressing demands or deadlines.
The word "fast-track" originates from the combination of two words: "fast" and "track".
"Fast" is of Old English origin, coming from the word "fæst" or "fæste", meaning "quick, swift, or speedy". It has been used in English since the 13th century.
"Track" comes from Middle English "trak", derived from the Old French word "trac" or "tracé", which means "footprint" or "mark left by someone or something". It can be traced back to the Latin word "tractus", meaning "a drawing out or dragging".
When the two words are combined, "fast-track" means to expedite or make something happen quickly. It began to be used figuratively in the 1960s in the context of accelerating processes or procedures, chiefly in business, politics, and government.