Quadruple VS
Synonym Boundary: "早速", "即座", "即刻", "いちはやく"
All represent the core concept "immediately", but require precise selection.
Japanese Option A
早速
さっそく (sassoku)
N3 / CEFR
Japanese Option B
即座
そくざ (sokuza)
N2 / CEFR
Japanese Option C
即刻
そっこく (sokkoku)
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 "早速", "即座", "即刻", "いちはやく" based on context.
- 早速 (さっそく (sassoku) - Level: N3): Maps to "immediately, right away, without delay" and is used when Used to express that an action is taken quickly after an event or decision, or without hesitation. It often implies responding promptly to an opportunity or situation..
- 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..
Context for "早速"
新しい店がオープンしたので、早速行ってみました。
Since the new store opened, I immediately went to check it out.
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.
Synonym Mastery Challenge
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "新しい店がオープンしたので、 ＿＿＿ 行ってみました。" (Meaning: "Since the new store opened, I immediately went to check it out.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "早速" is correct here because it represents "immediately, right away, without delay" in the context: "Since the new store opened, I immediately went to check it out.".