Immediately: meaning, definitions and examples

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immediately

 

[ ɪˈmiːdiətli ]

Adverb
Oxford 3000
Context #1 | Adverb

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?

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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.

  • He was asked to report to the office immediately.
  • The fire alarm rang, and everyone evacuated the building immediately.
right away

Often used in everyday conversation to imply that something should be done now, suggesting promptness but not necessarily extreme urgency.

  • If you have any issues, let me know right away.
  • I will send the email right away.
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.

  • Come here at once! We're running late.
  • The manager wants to see you at once.
without delay

Common in formal or written contexts, suggesting that an action should be taken seriously and immediately, usually for important matters.

  • The project must be completed without delay to meet the deadline.
  • They need the documents without delay to finalize the contract.

Examples of usage

  • He needs to see you immediately.
  • The doctor will be with you immediately.

Translations

Translations of the word "immediately" in other languages:

🇵🇹 imediatamente

🇮🇳 तुरंत

🇩🇪 sofort

🇮🇩 segera

🇺🇦 негайно

🇵🇱 natychmiast

🇯🇵 すぐに

🇫🇷 immédiatement

🇪🇸 inmediatamente

🇹🇷 hemen

🇰🇷 즉시

🇸🇦 فورًا

🇨🇿 okamžitě

🇸🇰 okamžite

🇨🇳 立即

🇸🇮 takoj

🇮🇸 strax

🇰🇿 дереу

🇬🇪 მყისვე

🇦🇿 dərhal

🇲🇽 inmediatamente

Etymology

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.

Word Frequency Rank

At #753 in the frequency ranking, this word is highly important for effective communication. It's commonly used in daily situations and should be prioritized in your vocabulary building.