1.
soon; before long
In a short while, without needing to do anything: something will happen on its own before long.
Often written 直に. Common in conversation and a little old-fashioned in tone.
Similar words
- すぐに: right away, immediately; also used for actions a person takes
- もうすぐ: very soon; the time is close (もうすぐ春だ)
- そのうち: some time or other; vaguer about when
Watch out
直に (directly, in person) uses the same kanji but is a different word.
Related Words
Compare:
すぐに (right away, immediately)
Compare:
もうすぐ (very soon)
Compare:
そのうち (some time or other)