Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Immediately" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "immediately", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
即座
そくざ (sokuza)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
即刻
そっこく (sokkoku)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "immediately" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 即座 and 即刻.
In Japanese, 即座 (そくざ (sokuza)) is typically associated with "immediately, on the spot, instantly" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Emphasizes an extremely quick, instantaneous response or action, leaving no delay. Often used adverbially with 「即座に〜」..
On the other hand, 即刻 (そっこく (sokkoku)) maps to "immediately, instantly, promptly" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Stronger than 「すぐに」. A literal translation of "immediately" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "即座"
質問に対して、彼は即座に答えた。
He answered the question immediately.
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.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "質問に対して、彼は ＿＿＿ に答えた。" (Meaning: "He answered the question immediately.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "即座" fits here because it means "immediately, on the spot, instantly" in the context of: "He answered the question immediately.". "即刻" represents "immediately, instantly, promptly".