Immediately

Definition

Immediately is an adverb. It refers to something happening at once, without any delay, or in direct connection to something else.

Parts of Speech

• Adverb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪˈmiːdiətli/, /ɪˈmiːdʒətli/
• Respelling: ih-MEE-dee-uht-lee, ih-MEE-jit-lee

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪˈmiːdiətli/, /ɪˈmiːdʒətli/
• Respelling: ih-MEE-dee-uht-lee, ih-MEE-jit-lee

Etymology

The word "immediately" originates from the Latin "immediatus," meaning "without anything in between," composed of "in-" (not) and "medius" (middle). It entered Middle English through Old French "immediat," gaining its current form in the 14th century.

Derivatives

• Immediate (adjective)
• Immediacy (noun)
• Immediatism (noun)
• Immediately following (phrase)
• Immediate action (phrase)

Synonyms

• Instantly
• Promptly
• Directly

Antonyms

• Eventually
• Later
• None

Usage

The adverb "immediately" is often used to express urgency or directness, such as "She responded immediately to the question." It can also imply spatial closeness, e.g., "The building immediately next to the park."

Related Terms

• Instant: Happening without delay.
• Urgent: Requiring immediate attention.
• Direct: Without intermediaries or interruptions.

Detailed Definitions

Adverb

• Without any delay: Refers to actions or events occurring instantly.
  • Example: "He called immediately after hearing the news."
• In close proximity in space or time: Describes something happening next or near to another thing.
  • Example: "The car parked immediately behind hers."
• Directly or closely related: Indicates a direct connection or relevance.
  • Example: "The incident was immediately related to the power outage."