至急

• Reading: しきゅう
• Romaji: shikyuu
• Kanji breakdown: 至 (shi) — reach, arrive at; 急 (kyuu) — urgent, hurry
• Pronunciation: /ɕi.kʲɯ.ɯ/

Meaning

Urgent; pressing; immediately. Indicates something needs attention right away.

A noun and adverb used to convey urgency. Very common in business emails and workplace communication, often placed at the beginning of a sentence or email subject line. Carries more weight than すぐ (immediately) and implies serious time pressure.

Examples

1. 至急、会議室に来てください。 A new computer was provided by the company.
2. この書類は至急処理する必要がある。 The bonus payment date is December 10th.
3. 至急のご連絡をお待ちしております。 Uniforms are provided when you join the company.

Usage Guide

Context: business email, workplace, announcements

Tone: urgent

Origin & History

Composed of 至 (reach, arrive at the utmost) and 急 (urgent, hurry). Together they express the idea of reaching the highest level of urgency.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: Working adults

Social background: Professional