(とたん)

とたん
noun
the moment, just as
formalliterary
1. the moment, just as, as soon as
The exact moment when something happens, typically used in the pattern 〜た途端(とたん)(に) to express that something occurred immediately after another action.
The moment I left the house, it started raining.
〜た途端に = the moment ~
The moment I saw his face, I remembered the old days.
I felt regret the moment the call ended.

Grammar: 途端(とたん) is typically used in the pattern 「Verb た-form + 途端(とたん)()」 meaning 'the moment that ~' or 'as soon as ~'. The is optional.

Common patterns

  • 〜た途端(とたん)() = the moment ~, as soon as ~

Usage

  • The second action usually happens immediately and unexpectedly
  • Often used for sudden changes or realizations
  • Similar to 〜たとたん, 〜やいなや, 〜(はや)

Similar words

Note: The kanji 途端(とたん) literally means 'the edge of the path' - the precise moment of transition.