すぐ vs 即座に
Japanese word comparison
Listen to すぐ
Listen to 即座に
| すぐ | 即座に |
|---|---|
SOO-goo adverb | そくざに adverb |
| right away; immediately; without delay | instantly; on the spot |
How they differ
即座に emphasizes a very quick reaction, often in response to a question, request, or situation. Compared with すぐ, it sounds more deliberate and precise, and it is less about simple timing than about immediate response.
When to use each
When to use すぐ: Use すぐ when you simply mean there is no delay in time.
When to use 即座に: Use 即座に when you want to stress that someone responded instantly and appropriately in that exact moment.
Side-by-side examples
- 彼はすぐ返事をした。
(He replied right away.) - 彼は即座に返事をした。
(He replied on the spot.)
Register & nuance: 即座に is somewhat formal and written-sounding; すぐ is more natural in everyday speech.