Quadruple VS
Synonym Boundary: "すぐ", "即刻", "至急", "いちはやく"
All represent the core concept "immediately", but require precise selection.
Japanese Option A
すぐ
すぐ (sugu)
N4 / CEFR
Japanese Option B
即刻
そっこく (sokkoku)
N2 / CEFR
Japanese Option C
至急
しきゅう (shikyuu)
N2 / CEFR
Japanese Option D
いちはやく
いちはやく (ichihayaku)
N2 / CEFR
Quadruple VS Nuance Contrast & Social Differences
When expressing "immediately" in Japanese, you must carefully distinguish between "すぐ", "即刻", "至急", "いちはやく" 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..
- 即刻 (そっこく (sokkoku) - Level: N2): Maps to "immediately, instantly, promptly" and is used when Stronger than 「すぐに」.
- 至急 (しきゅう (shikyuu) - Level: N2): Maps to "immediately, urgently, as soon as possible" and is used when 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。.
- いちはやく (いちはやく (ichihayaku) - Level: N2): Maps to "immediately, quickly, promptly; at the earliest stage" and is used when Emphasizes speed and being among the first to react or act. Implies seizing an opportunity or recognizing something early..
Context for "すぐ"
彼はすぐにここに来ます。
He will come here right away.
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.
Context for "至急"
この書類を至急確認してください。
Please check this document immediately.
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.
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.".