Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Immediately" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "immediately", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
至急
しきゅう (shikyuu)
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 至急 and いちはやく.
In Japanese, 至急 (しきゅう (shikyuu)) is typically associated with "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。.
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 "至急"
この書類を至急確認してください。
Please check this document 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: "この書類を ＿＿＿ 確認してください。" (Meaning: "Please check this document immediately.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "至急" fits here because it means "immediately, urgently, as soon as possible" in the context of: "Please check this document immediately.". "いちはやく" represents "immediately, quickly, promptly; at the earliest stage".