Ciao! Learning how to say “right away” in Italian is a useful skill to have when you want to express urgency or immediacy in your conversations. In this guide, we will explore both formal and informal ways to convey this meaning. So, senza indugiare (without further delay), let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “Right Away” in Italian
1. Subito
The most common and versatile term to say “right away” in Italian is “subito.” It can be used in various situations, such as when you want someone to do something immediately or when you need something done urgently. For example:
Subito, per favore! – Right away, please!
2. Immediatamente
If you want to sound more formal or emphasize the urgency further, you can use the term “immediatamente.” It carries a sense of urgency and immediacy, leaving no room for delay. Here’s an example:
Hai bisogno di rispondere immediatamente. – You need to respond right away.
Informal Ways to Say “Right Away” in Italian
1. Subito
Just like in formal contexts, “subito” is commonly used in informal situations as well. Whether you’re talking to friends, family, or colleagues in a more relaxed setting, you can confidently use “subito” to express urgency. For example:
Dobbiamo partire subito! – We have to leave right away!
2. Adesso
In informal conversations, the word “adesso” can also be used to mean “right away.” While “adesso” is primarily translated as “now,” it can convey a sense of immediacy when used in the right context. Here’s an example:
Chiamo Giulia adesso! – I’ll call Giulia right away!
Tips and Examples
1. Adding emphasis:
If you wish to add more emphasis to your statement when using any of the previously mentioned phrases, you can include the word “davvero,” meaning “really.” For instance:
Devi chiamarmi subito, davvero! – You have to call me right away, really!
2. In a hurry:
If you want to convey a sense of urgency or that you are in a hurry, you can use the phrase “sono di fretta.” Here’s an example of how you can combine it with “subito”:
Dammi quelle carte, sono di fretta. Le devo vedere subito! – Give me those papers, I’m in a hurry. I need to see them right away!
3. Polite requests:
If you want to make a polite request for something to be done immediately, you can use the phrase “per favore” (please) along with “subito” or “adesso.” Here’s an example:
Puoi chiudere la finestra subito, per favore? – Can you close the window right away, please?
Regional Variations
Italian is a diverse language that varies slightly from region to region. Although the terms mentioned above are widely understood throughout Italy, some regions may have their own unique expressions for “right away.” Here are a couple of regional variations:
1. Sicilian:
In Sicily, people often use the term “micca” to mean “right away” or “immediately.” For example:
Facelo micca! – Do it right away!
2. Roman Dialect:
In the Roman dialect, you can hear the term “a bottane” when referring to “right away.” It carries the same sense of immediacy. For example:
Fammela a bottane! – Do it right away!
Remember, regional variations are not commonly used outside of their respective areas, so using the more universal terms like “subito,” “immediatamente,” “adesso,” and even “micca” can help ensure proper understanding regardless of where you find yourself in Italy.
Now that you have a solid understanding of how to say “right away” in Italian, you can confidently express urgency and immediacy in your conversations. Practice using these terms, and soon enough, you’ll be speaking Italian with flair and precision. Buona fortuna! (Good luck!)
