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
至急
しきゅう (shikyuu)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "immediately" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 即座 and 至急.
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, 至急 (しきゅう (shikyuu)) maps to "immediately, urgently, as soon as possible" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Often used in business or formal contexts, conveying a strong sense of urgency. Less common in casual conversation. 「早く」よりも緊急度が高い場合に用いられます。. 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 "至急"
この書類を至急確認してください。
Please check this document 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.". "至急" represents "immediately, urgently, as soon as possible".