Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Immediately" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "immediately", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
すぐ
すぐ (sugu)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
いちはやく
いちはやく (ichihayaku)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "immediately" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between すぐ and いちはやく.
In Japanese, すぐ (すぐ (sugu)) is typically associated with "immediately, soon, right away" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents An adverb indicating that something will happen quickly or without delay, or is in close proximity..
On the other hand, いちはやく (いちはやく (ichihayaku)) maps to "immediately, quickly, promptly; at the earliest stage" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Emphasizes speed and being among the first to react or act. Implies seizing an opportunity or recognizing something early.. A literal translation of "immediately" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "すぐ"
彼はすぐにここに来ます。
He will come here right away.
Bilingual Context for "いちはやく"
彼は危険をいちはやく察知し、皆に知らせた。
He immediately sensed the danger and informed everyone.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼は ＿＿＿ にここに来ます。" (Meaning: "He will come here right away.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "すぐ" fits here because it means "immediately, soon, right away" in the context of: "He will come here right away.". "いちはやく" represents "immediately, quickly, promptly; at the earliest stage".