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
即座に
そくざに (sokuzani)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "immediately" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between すぐ and 即座に.
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, 即座に (そくざに (sokuzani)) maps to "immediately, on the spot, instantly" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Emphasizes a very quick, almost instantaneous reaction or action without any delay.. 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 "即座に"
彼は私の質問に即座に答えた。
He answered my question immediately.
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.". "即座に" represents "immediately, on the spot, instantly".