Quadruple VS
Synonym Boundary: "すぐ", "即座", "言下", "直ちに"
All represent the core concept "immediately", but require precise selection.
Japanese Option A
すぐ
すぐ (sugu)
N4 / CEFR
Japanese Option B
即座
そくざ (sokuza)
N2 / CEFR
Japanese Option C
言下
げんか (genka)
N1 / CEFR
Japanese Option D
直ちに
ただちに (tadachini)
B2 / CEFR
Quadruple VS Nuance Contrast & Social Differences
When expressing "immediately" in Japanese, you must carefully distinguish between "すぐ", "即座", "言下", "直ちに" 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〜」..
- 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.
- 直ちに (ただちに (tadachini) - Level: B2): Maps to "immediately, at once" and is used when Essential structural term in CEFR B2 vocabulary syllabus..
Context for "すぐ"
彼はすぐにここに来ます。
He will come here right away.
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 "言下"
彼は言下に参加を断った。
He refused to participate on the spot.
Context for "直ちに"
私は直ちにに興味があります。
I am interested in immediately, at once.
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.".