即座に

• Reading: そくざに
• Romaji: sokuza ni
• Kanji breakdown: 即 (soku) — immediate, at once; 座 (za) — seat, place
• Pronunciation: /so.kɯ.za.ni/

Meaning

Immediately; right away; on the spot. Without any delay or hesitation.

An adverb meaning to act without the slightest delay. Composed of 即座 (sokuza, the spot/instant) plus the particle に. Emphasises not just speed but the absence of any pause for deliberation: 即座に答える (to answer immediately), 即座に対応する (to respond on the spot). More emphatic than すぐに (soon/right away) and implies decisive, unhesitating action.

Examples

1. 彼は質問に即座に答えた。 He answered the question immediately.
2. 問題が発覚した後、会社は即座に対応した。 After the problem came to light, the company responded on the spot.
3. 危険を感じたら即座にその場を離れてください。 If you sense danger, leave the area right away.

Usage Guide

Context: business, emergencies, news, decision-making

Tone: decisive

Origin & History

From Sino-Japanese: 即 (soku, immediate/at once) + 座 (za, seat/place) + に (ni, adverbial particle). Literally 'at the seat/spot,' meaning right where one is, without moving or pausing.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal