Translation and Meaning of: 早速 - sassoku

If you are learning Japanese, you have probably come across the word 早速[さっそく]. It is quite common in daily life and can cause some confusion for those who are just starting out. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, and how to use it correctly in different situations. Additionally, we will understand why it is so prevalent in Japanese communication and how native speakers perceive it.

Asap is one of those words that, despite being simple, carries important nuances. Its use ranges from informal conversations to more formal contexts, and knowing how to apply it can make a difference in your fluency. Here at Suki Nihongo, we aim to provide clear and practical explanations to facilitate your learning. Let's get straight to the point!

Meaning and use of 早速

早速 means "immediately," "without delay," or "without wasting time." It is used to express quick action, often in response to something that has just occurred. For example, if someone asks you to do something and you start right away, you can say "さっそくやります" (I will do it immediately).

The interesting thing is that 早速 carries a positive connotation of readiness and efficiency. The Japanese value agility in many aspects of life, and this word reflects that cultural trait. Unlike terms like "すぐ" (which also means "soon"), さっそく has a more active and intentional tone.

Origin and composition of the word

"Soon" is composed of two kanji: 早 (early, fast) and 速 (fast, speed). Together, they reinforce the idea of something done without delay. The origin of the word traces back to classical Japanese, where it was already used to indicate swift actions or quick responses to situations.

It is worth noting that, although the kanjis have similar meanings, the combination is not redundant. While 早 refers to time (early), 速 is more connected to speed itself. This duality enriches the meaning of the expression, showing that something was done both at the right moment and efficiently.

How and when to use 早速 in everyday life

The phrase 早速 appears frequently in situations where there's a beginning of action. If you receive a gift and want to use it right away, you can say "さっそく使います" (I'll use it right now). At work, it's common to hear "さっそく始めましょう" (let's start immediately), especially in meetings or new projects.

An important detail is that 早速 generally refers to actions that depend on a prior trigger. We do not use this word for things that happen by chance, but rather for responses or decisions made quickly after a stimulus. This subtlety makes all the difference when it comes to sounding natural in Japanese.

Trivia and memorization tips

An easy way to remember 早速 is to associate it with everyday situations where speed is valued. For example, imagine you just bought a new app and want to try it out immediately – that's the spirit of the word. Another tip is to notice that both kanjis start with the same radical (⻌), which can help with visual recognition.

In pop culture, 早速 appears frequently in anime and drama dialogues, especially in scenes where characters take quick action. Being aware of these uses can help internalize the word naturally. And of course, practicing with real sentences is always the best way to solidify learning.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 直ちに ( tadachini ) - Immediately, without delay.
• すぐに ( sugu ni ) - Logo, immediately, after.
• ただちに ( tadachini ) - Immediately, usually in a formal context.
• 急いで ( isoide ) - Hastily, in an urgent manner.
• 早急に ( soukyuu ni ) - Quickly and urgently, requiring immediate attention.

早速

Romaji: sassoku
Kana: さっそく
Type: adverb
L: jlpt-n2

Translation / Meaning: immediately; Without delay; readily.

Meaning in English: at once;immediately;without delay;promptly

Definition: Immediately [easily] Immediately, promptly. Before that.

Example Sentences - (早速) sassoku

See below some example sentences:

早速行動することが大切です。

Sassoku koudou suru koto ga taisetsu desu

It's important to act quickly.

It is important to act immediately.

• 早速 - means "immediately" or "right away."
• 行動 - means "action" or "behavior".
• する - is a verb that means "to do."
• こと - It is a particle that indicates that the previous verb is a noun, transforming "to do" into "to do something".
• が - It is a particle that indicates that the previous word is the subject of the sentence.
• 大切 - It means "important" or "valuable".
• です - It is a particle that indicates that the sentence is an affirmative and formal statement.