Quadruple VS
Synonym Boundary: "すぐ", "さっそく", "即座に", "言下"
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
即座に
そくざに (sokuzani)
N2 / CEFR
Japanese Option D
言下
げんか (genka)
N1 / CEFR
Quadruple VS Nuance Contrast & Social Differences
When expressing "immediately" in Japanese, you must carefully distinguish between "すぐ", "さっそく", "即座に", "言下" 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..
- 即座に (そくざに (sokuzani) - Level: N2): Maps to "immediately, on the spot, instantly" and is used when Emphasizes a very quick, almost instantaneous reaction or action without any delay..
- 言下 (げんか (genka) - Level: N1): Maps to "immediately; promptly; on the spot; without hesitation" and is used when Often used with verbs like 「断る.
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 "即座に"
彼は私の質問に即座に答えた。
He answered my question immediately.
Context for "言下"
彼は言下に参加を断った。
He refused to participate on the spot.
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.".