Translation guide
Expresses doing something immediately, without waiting. Common in instructions, requests, and formal contexts.
To say that something should be done at once, without any waiting.
The most common and neutral way to say 'immediately' or 'right away'. Used in both spoken and written Japanese.
すぐに来てください。
Please come right away.
すぐに出発しましょう。
Let's leave without delay.
Formal and often used in official announcements, warnings, or written instructions. Stronger than すぐに.
直ちに避難してください。
Evacuate immediately.
Implies doing something promptly and often with enthusiasm, as soon as the opportunity arises. Common in business and daily conversation.
早速ですが、本題に入りましょう。
Without further delay, let's get down to business.
ご注文の品を早速お送りします。
We will send the ordered item without delay.
Literally 'without putting a pause', used when actions follow each other immediately.
間を置かずに次の質問をした。
He asked the next question without delay.
To emphasize that an action is taken quickly and efficiently, often in response to a request or duty.
Formal, often used in business or official contexts to mean 'promptly' or 'in a timely manner'.
速やかに対応いたします。
We will respond promptly.
問題を速やかに解決する必要がある。
The problem needs to be resolved without delay.
Means 'swiftly' or 'rapidly', often used in business, logistics, or emergency contexts.
迅速なご対応ありがとうございます。
Thank you for your prompt response.
Very formal, used in legal or official documents to mean 'without delay' or 'without procrastination'.
遅滞なく手続きを行ってください。
Please carry out the procedure without delay.
To convey a sense of urgency, demanding immediate action.
Emphatic 'right now', used in urgent requests or commands. Common in casual and spoken Japanese.
今すぐやめて！
Stop it right now!
今すぐ出発しないと間に合わない。
We have to leave right now or we won't make it.
Strong, formal term meaning 'instantly' or 'immediately', often used in official orders or serious situations.
違反者は即刻退場していただきます。
Violators will be asked to leave immediately.
Emphasizes 'even right now', expressing strong desire for immediate action.
いますぐにでも始めたい。
I want to start right this instant.
すぐに is the most versatile and can be used in almost any situation. 直ちに is more formal and urgent, often seen in warnings or commands. 速やかに is formal and implies efficiency and proper procedure, common in business.
すぐに戻ります。
I'll be right back.
直ちに使用を中止してください。
Please discontinue use immediately.
速やかにご返信ください。
Please reply promptly.
The English phrase 'without delay' can sound stiff if translated literally as 遅れずに or 遅延なく. While 遅滞なく exists, it is very formal. In most cases, すぐに or 早速 are more natural choices.