Immediately Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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immediately
[ɪˈmiːdiətli ]
Definition
right away
At once; without delay. Used to indicate that something should be done or happen without delay.
Synonyms
at once, right away, without delay.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| immediately |
Used in both formal and informal settings to express that something should happen in the shortest possible time. Often used in urgent situations.
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| right away |
Often used in everyday conversation to imply that something should be done now, suggesting promptness but not necessarily extreme urgency.
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| at once |
Typically used in less formal contexts to indicate that something needs to be done right now. It can convey a sense of urgency or immediate action.
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| without delay |
Common in formal or written contexts, suggesting that an action should be taken seriously and immediately, usually for important matters.
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Examples of usage
- He needs to see you immediately.
- The doctor will be with you immediately.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Research shows that individuals often respond faster when asked to perform tasks described as 'immediate', leading to quicker decision-making.
- Instant gratification, a concept linked to this term, plays a crucial role in human motivation and behavior.
- Perception of time can be altered; people perceive tasks as more urgent when described as immediate.
Everyday Usage
- In educational settings, teachers often emphasize 'immediate feedback' to enhance student learning and motivation.
- In emergency situations, 'immediate response' is critical, as delays can affect outcomes significantly.
- Digital communication has amplified the importance of the word; receiving an 'immediate reply' has became a norm in our conversations.
Cultural Significance
- In many cultures, the concept of immediacy is tied to modern life, reflecting a shift towards fast-paced living.
- The rise of technology, including smartphones and instant messaging, has normalized immediate expectations in communication and information access.
- Some traditional cultures value patience over immediacy, contrasting with contemporary fast-living philosophies.
Literature
- In literary works, authors often use 'immediately' to build urgency in plots, keeping readers on the edge of their seats.
- Themes of immediacy can often signify critical moments of change or character development in a storyline.
- Famous lines in drama often incorporate immediacy to highlight the importance of timing in human emotions and actions.
Origin of 'immediately'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'immediatus', meaning 'not mediate', which refers to something happening directly and without delay.
- In the late 1500s, the English adopted this term, emphasizing the idea of acting straight away.
- It was used in legal contexts to stress urgency in actions or decisions.
The word 'immediately' originated from the Latin word 'immediātus', which means 'unanticipated'. Over time, the meaning of 'immediately' evolved to its current usage in English. The word has been in use for centuries and is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts.
See also: immediacy.