Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Immediately" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "immediately", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
即刻
そっこく (sokkoku)
N2 / 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 即刻 and いちはやく.
In Japanese, 即刻 (そっこく (sokkoku)) is typically associated with "immediately, instantly, promptly" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Stronger than 「すぐに」.
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 "即刻"
問題が発生したら、即刻上司に報告してください。
If a problem occurs, please report it to your boss immediately.
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: "問題が発生したら、 ＿＿＿ 上司に報告してください。" (Meaning: "If a problem occurs, please report it to your boss immediately.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "即刻" fits here because it means "immediately, instantly, promptly" in the context of: "If a problem occurs, please report it to your boss immediately.". "いちはやく" represents "immediately, quickly, promptly; at the earliest stage".