1.
at once, immediately, right away, promptly
Indicates that an action is taken without delay, often in response to something.
早速始めましょう。
Let's get started right away.
早速 conveys acting promptly, often in eager response to new information or an opportunity. It carries a positive nuance of enthusiasm, not just speed.
POSITION:
Typically appears at the beginning of a sentence or directly before the verb.
COMMON PATTERNS:
- 早速ですが…: Getting right to the point... (polite transition in business)
- 早速試す: to try right away
- 早速使ってみる: to try using it right away
SIMILAR WORDS:
- すぐに: immediately (neutral, no eagerness nuance)
- 直ちに: immediately (formal, urgent)
- 即座に: instantly (no delay at all)
NOTE:
早速 implies willing, eager action. It would sound odd for reluctant or forced immediate action.