Here's an analysis of the "fast NOUN" frequency patterns in TIME magazine from the 1920s-2000s: 1920s-1930s: Transportation Era Key phrases: fast cruisers, fast ships, fast train, fast freight These decades show a focus on transportation, particularly naval and rail transport, reflecting the importance of these modes of transportation in the early 20th century. The term "fast friends" was also notably common, though this usage refers to close friendship rather than speed. 1940s-1950s: Sports and Economic Terms Key phrases: fast ball/balls, fast buck, fast tax, fast breeder, fast write-offs This period shows increased usage of baseball terminology ("fast ball") and economic/financial terms ("fast buck," "fast tax"). The 1950s in particular saw a peak in business and tax-related "fast" phrases, suggesting increased focus on economic matters in post-war America. 1960s-1970s: Automotive and Speed Key phrases: fast cars, fast pace, fast break, fast sports This period shows increased usage of automotive terms and sports-related speed references. "Fast cars" peaked in frequency during this time, reflecting the growing car culture and perhaps the muscle car era. 1980s-1990s: Modern Life and Business Key phrases: fast track, fast lane, fast food, fast times These decades saw the emergence of metaphorical phrases about modern life ("fast lane") and career advancement ("fast track"). "Fast food" began appearing regularly in the 1970s and increased significantly in frequency, reflecting the growth of the quick-service restaurant industry. 2000s: Food and Convenience Key phrases: fast food, fast foods The most striking pattern in the 2000s is the dramatic increase in "fast food" usage, which reached its highest frequency in this decade. This suggests the central role of quick-service dining in American culture by this time. The evolution of "fast" phrases reflects changing technological, economic, and social priorities across the decades, from transportation to business to lifestyle and consumption patterns.