Translation guide
Describes something that happens immediately, without any delay. In Japanese, this is often expressed with adverbs like 瞬間的に (shunkan-teki ni) or 即座に (sokuza ni), or by using the noun 瞬間 (shunkan) meaning 'moment'. The choice depends on formality and context.
To describe an action or event that occurs immediately, with no perceptible delay.
A na-adjective meaning 'instantaneous'. Often used as 瞬間的に (shunkan-teki ni) as an adverb. Common in both spoken and written Japanese.
Specifically referring to death that occurs immediately, without suffering.
A noun meaning 'instant death'. Commonly used in news or medical contexts. Can be used as 即死する (sokushi suru) for 'to die instantly'.
瞬間的 (shunkan-teki) is the most direct translation of 'instantaneous' and works in most contexts. 即座 (sokuza) implies an immediate response or action, often used for human reactions. 一瞬で (isshun de) is more colloquial and emphasizes the brevity of the moment.
An instantaneous decision is needed.
His reaction was instantaneous.
The explosion happened instantaneously.
A noun meaning 'immediate' or 'instant'. Used as 即座に (sokuza ni) to mean 'instantly' or 'on the spot'. Slightly more formal than 瞬間的.
He replied instantly.
A noun meaning 'moment' or 'instant'. Used as 瞬時に (shunji ni) to mean 'in an instant'. More literary or formal than 瞬間.
The situation changed in an instant.
Literally 'in one moment'. A very common, slightly casual way to say 'instantly' or 'in a flash'.
It disappeared in an instant.
An adverb meaning 'in no time', 'at once', or 'suddenly'. Often used for rapid changes or spreading. Slightly literary or emphatic.
The rumor spread instantaneously.
He died instantly in the accident.
A less common term for 'instantaneous death', more technical or medical.
Instantaneous death is rare.
即座の判断が必要だ。
An immediate decision is needed.
You have to decide in an instant.