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.
瞬間的な判断が必要だ。
An instantaneous decision is needed.
即座の判断が必要だ。
An immediate decision is needed.
彼の反応は瞬間的だった。
His reaction was instantaneous.
爆発は瞬間的に起こった。
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.
彼は即座に返事をした。
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.
状況は瞬時に変わった。
The situation changed in an instant.
Literally 'in one moment'. A very common, slightly casual way to say 'instantly' or 'in a flash'.
一瞬で消えた。
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.
うわさはたちまち広まった。
The rumor spread instantaneously.
彼は事故で即死した。
He died instantly in the accident.
A less common term for 'instantaneous death', more technical or medical.
瞬間死はまれだ。
Instantaneous death is rare.
You have to decide in an instant.
You have to decide in an instant.