Quadruple VS
Synonym Boundary: "すぐ", "さっそく", "即座", "即刻"
All represent the core concept "immediately", but require precise selection.
Japanese Option A
すぐ
すぐ (sugu)
N4 / CEFR
Japanese Option B
さっそく
さっそく (sassoku)
N3 / CEFR
Japanese Option C
即座
そくざ (sokuza)
N2 / CEFR
Japanese Option D
即刻
そっこく (sokkoku)
N2 / CEFR
Quadruple VS Nuance Contrast & Social Differences
When expressing "immediately" in Japanese, you must carefully distinguish between "すぐ", "さっそく", "即座", "即刻" based on context.
- すぐ (すぐ (sugu) - Level: N4): Maps to "immediately, soon, right away" and is used when An adverb indicating that something will happen quickly or without delay, or is in close proximity..
- さっそく (さっそく (sassoku) - Level: N3): Maps to "immediately, without delay, at once" and is used when Adverb indicating prompt action. Used when something is done quickly after a decision, event, or receipt of information..
- 即座 (そくざ (sokuza) - Level: N2): Maps to "immediately, on the spot, instantly" and is used when Emphasizes an extremely quick, instantaneous response or action, leaving no delay. Often used adverbially with 「即座に〜」..
- 即刻 (そっこく (sokkoku) - Level: N2): Maps to "immediately, instantly, promptly" and is used when Stronger than 「すぐに」.
Context for "すぐ"
彼はすぐにここに来ます。
He will come here right away.
Context for "さっそく"
知らせを聞いて、さっそく準備を始めた。
Upon hearing the news, I immediately started preparations.
Context for "即座"
質問に対して、彼は即座に答えた。
He answered the question immediately.
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.
Synonym Mastery Challenge
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼は ＿＿＿ にここに来ます。" (Meaning: "He will come here right away.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "すぐ" is correct here because it represents "immediately, soon, right away" in the context: "He will come here right away.".