Translation guide
The English word "immediate" covers several distinct meanings: happening right away, closest in space or time, direct (without intermediary), and most urgent. Japanese uses different words and patterns for each.
Describing an action, effect, or response that occurs instantly or very soon after something else.
Used for an immediate reaction or response, often in formal or written contexts. Emphasizes no time lag.
彼は即座の返事を求めた。
He demanded an immediate reply.
Common in official or business contexts for immediate action, payment, or effect. Slightly more formal than すぐの.
即時の支払いが必要です。
Immediate payment is required.
Everyday, casual way to say immediate. Often used in speech.
すぐの対応をお願いします。
Please take immediate action.
Adverbial pattern meaning "immediately" or "right away." Very common in spoken and written Japanese.
すぐに来てください。
Please come immediately.
薬はすぐに効いた。
The medicine worked immediately.
Adverb meaning "immediately" or "without delay," often used when acting promptly on a suggestion or opportunity. Carries a nuance of eagerness.
早速ですが、本題に入りましょう。
Without further delay, let's get to the main topic.
Referring to the nearest thing, person, or moment, without anything in between.
Used before a noun to mean "immediate" in the sense of "right next to" or "just around." Common in everyday speech.
すぐ隣の家
the immediate neighbor / the house right next door
すぐ近くにコンビニがあります。
There's a convenience store in the immediate vicinity.
Means "immediate" in time, like the immediate future or past. Often used in business or news contexts.
直近の課題はコスト削減です。
The immediate challenge is cost reduction.
Literally "in front of one's eyes," used for something physically immediate or a pressing issue.
目の前の問題に集中しよう。
Let's focus on the immediate problem.
Describing a relationship or cause that is direct, with nothing coming between.
Standard word for "direct" or "immediate" when referring to a link, contact, or cause without an intermediary.
彼は私の直接の上司です。
He is my immediate superior.
直接の原因はまだ不明だ。
The immediate cause is still unknown.
Specifically for hierarchical relationships, like an immediate boss or subordinate. Common in workplace contexts.
直属の部下が三人います。
I have three immediate subordinates.
Describing a need, concern, or priority that requires attention right now.
Used for an urgent, pressing need or danger. Often has a serious tone.
差し迫った危険はない。
There is no immediate danger.
Means "emergency" or "urgent," often used for immediate action required in crises.
緊急の対応が必要だ。
Immediate action is necessary.
Refers to something that must be dealt with now, the immediate task or problem at hand.
当面の目標は売上を伸ばすことだ。
The immediate goal is to increase sales.
すぐに is the most common and neutral way to say "immediately." 即座に emphasizes an instant reaction with no gap, often used in formal or written language. 早速 carries a nuance of acting promptly and willingly, often when responding to a suggestion or starting something new.
English "immediate" is often used in contexts where Japanese prefers a simpler expression like すぐ or すぐに. Overusing 即座の or 即時の can sound overly formal or stiff. For everyday situations, すぐに or すぐの is usually better.