Quadruple VS
Synonym Boundary: "即座", "即刻", "いちはやく", "言下"
All represent the core concept "immediately", but require precise selection.
Japanese Option A
即座
そくざ (sokuza)
N2 / CEFR
Japanese Option B
即刻
そっこく (sokkoku)
N2 / CEFR
Japanese Option C
いちはやく
いちはやく (ichihayaku)
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 "即座", "即刻", "いちはやく", "言下" based on context.
- 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」.
- 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..
- 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 "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.
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.
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: "質問に対して、彼は ＿＿＿ に答えた。" (Meaning: "He answered the question immediately.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "即座" is correct here because it represents "immediately, on the spot, instantly" in the context: "He answered the question immediately.".