Translation guide
The English word 'urgent' describes something that requires immediate action or attention. In Japanese, the most natural way to express this depends on whether you are talking about a task, a situation, a request, or a medical emergency. The most common equivalent is 緊急 (kinkyū), but other words like 至急 (shikyū) or 急ぎ (isogi) are used in specific contexts. Learners should also be aware that Japanese often uses set phrases rather than a single adjective.
To describe a situation, matter, or task that needs to be dealt with right away.
The most common and versatile word for 'urgent'. It can be used as a noun or with な to form an adjective. Suitable for both spoken and written Japanese.
An urgent matter came up.
Often used as a noun meaning 'urgency' or 'hurry'. Commonly appears in phrases like 急ぎの用事 (urgent business). Slightly more casual than 緊急.
Means 'as soon as possible' or 'urgently'. Often used in business or formal requests. Can sound more pressing than 緊急.
To ask someone to do something quickly or to emphasize that something must be done without delay.
A polite but direct way to request urgent action. Common in emails and business settings.
Please reply urgently.
To describe a medical condition or situation that requires immediate treatment.
To convey that something is of critical importance and cannot be postponed.
The katakana word アージェント exists but is rarely used in natural Japanese. Stick to the native terms above.
緊急 is an adjective/noun describing the state of being urgent. 至急 is an adverb/noun meaning 'urgently' or 'ASAP'. Use 緊急 for 'an urgent situation' and 至急 for 'do something urgently'.
This is urgent.
This is an urgent problem.
急ぎの仕事が入った。
An urgent task came in.
Please contact us urgently.
The te-form of 急ぐ (to hurry), used to mean 'quickly' or 'urgently'. More casual and direct than 至急.
Please come quickly (it's urgent).
An intensified version of 至急, meaning 'extremely urgent' or 'ASAP'. Used in very pressing situations, often in business.
This is extremely urgent, please.
Used in medical contexts as well, e.g., 緊急手術 (emergency surgery).
An urgent patient was brought in.
Specifically refers to emergency medical services. 救急車 means ambulance. Not used for general urgency.
Please call an ambulance.
imminent danger
A formal, somewhat old-fashioned word for 'urgent'. Often used in the phrase 火急の用 (urgent business). Rare in modern conversation.
I have come on urgent business.
We will respond urgently.
I have an urgent request.