Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Immediately" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "immediately", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
即座に
そくざに (sokuzani)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
言下
げんか (genka)
N1 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "immediately" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 即座に and 言下.
In Japanese, 即座に (そくざに (sokuzani)) is typically associated with "immediately, on the spot, instantly" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Emphasizes a very quick, almost instantaneous reaction or action without any delay..
On the other hand, 言下 (げんか (genka)) maps to "immediately; promptly; on the spot; without hesitation" (Syllabus Level: N1) and represents Often used with verbs like 「断る. A literal translation of "immediately" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "即座に"
彼は私の質問に即座に答えた。
He answered my question immediately.
Bilingual Context for "言下"
彼は言下に参加を断った。
He refused to participate on the spot.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼は私の質問に ＿＿＿ 答えた。" (Meaning: "He answered my question immediately.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "即座に" fits here because it means "immediately, on the spot, instantly" in the context of: "He answered my question immediately.". "言下" represents "immediately; promptly; on the spot; without hesitation".