immediately

1 of 2

adverb

im·​me·​di·​ate·​ly i-ˈmē-dē-ət-lē How to pronounce immediately (audio)
also -ˈmē-dit-
British often -ˈmē-jit-
Synonyms of immediately
1
: without interval of time : straightway
I'll make that call immediately.
2
: in direct connection or relation : directly
the parties immediately involved in the case
the house immediately beyond this one

immediately

2 of 2

conjunction

chiefly British

Examples of immediately in a Sentence

Adverb the person immediately to my left Dinner was served immediately after the ceremony. The new law will become effective immediately. Conjunction Immediately you fill out this form, we can start processing your request. give us a ring immediately you get back
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Adverb
The 1996 work is part of eight self-portraits Bowie created during a prolific period of painting, all of which were snapped up immediately. — Ellise Shafer, Variety, 9 Oct. 2026 Heather immediately shows off her Japanese with the hotel manager. — Louis Peitzman, Vulture, 9 Oct. 2026 City leaders reacted immediately, saying the revelations about the department’s culture were unacceptable and pledging to swiftly investigate and root out the systemic racism. — Kansas City Star, 9 Oct. 2026 The Nobel committee did not immediately respond to an email seeking comment following Rubio’s announcement. — Stefanie Dazio, Los Angeles Times, 9 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for immediately

Word History

First Known Use

Adverb

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Conjunction

1839, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of immediately was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Immediately.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/immediately. Accessed 14 Oct. 2026.

Kids Definition

immediately

adverb
im·​me·​di·​ate·​ly
im-ˈēd-ē-ət-lē
1
: with nothing between : directly
the person immediately to my left
2
: right away : at once
do it immediately
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