Welcome to our comprehensive guide on how to say “right away” in Korean! Whether you’re learning Korean for travel, work, or simply for fun, knowing how to express urgency and emphasize immediacy is essential. In this guide, we will cover both formal and informal ways to convey this meaning, while also providing useful tips, examples, and addressing any regional variations. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “Right Away”
When speaking in formal situations or addressing people of higher authority, it’s important to use appropriate honorifics and polite expressions. Here are several phrases you can use to convey the meaning of “right away” formally:
1. 지금 (Jigeum)
This is the most straightforward and commonly used term for “right away” in formal speech. It translates to “now” or “this instant” and can be used in various contexts without sounding too direct or rude. For instance, you can say:
회의가 바로 시작하니까 지금 오세요. (Hoe-ui-ga baro shijak-hanikka jigeum oseyo.)
Please come now as the meeting is about to start.
2. 즉시 (Jeukshi) / 즉각 (Jeukgak)
These terms are more formal and convey a sense of immediate action. They can be used interchangeably and are often utilized in professional or serious settings. Here’s an example:
곧 도착하니까 즉시 대기해 주세요. (Got dochak-hanikka jeukshi daegihae juseyo.)
Please wait immediately as it will arrive soon.
Informal Ways to Say “Right Away”
When speaking casually or with close friends, the formal expressions mentioned earlier may sound too stiff. Instead, consider using these informal phrases to express urgency:
1. 바로 (Baro)
This term is widely used in casual settings and is similar to the formal “지금 (Jigeum).” It delivers a stronger sense of immediacy and works well in various situations. For example:
빨리 해야 해, 바로 시작해. (Ppalli haeya hae, baro shijakhae.)
We need to do it quickly, start right away.
2. 당장 (Dangjang) / 지금 당장 (Jigeum dangjang)
These expressions can be used interchangeably and are often employed to add emphasis to the need for immediate action. They are perfect for conveying a sense of urgency between friends or in informal situations:
밥을 먹어야 해, 지금 당장 피자를 시켜. (Bap-eul meogeoya hae, jigeum dangjang pija-reul sikyeo.)
We have to eat, order pizza right away.
Regional Variations
While Korean has regional dialects, the standard expressions mentioned above are understood and used throughout the country. However, it’s worth noting that some regional variants may exist, especially in parts of South Korea. These variations typically involve slight changes in pronunciation or vocabulary. Nevertheless, learning the standard expressions will ensure clear communication regardless of the region you visit.
Tips and Additional Examples
Tips:
- To sound even more urgent, you can add words like “빨리 (ppalli)” meaning “quickly” or “속히 (sokhi)” meaning “hurriedly” before the phrases mentioned above.
- Hand gestures, facial expressions, and body language can also reinforce your message of immediacy.
- Always consider the appropriate level of politeness and formality based on the context and your relationship with the person you’re speaking to.
Additional Examples:
Here are a few more examples illustrating the usage of “right away” expressions in different contexts:
지금 바로 시작해. (Jigeum baro shijakhae.)
Start right away.
지금 즉시 도와주세요! (Jigeum jeukshi dowajuseyo!)
Please help now immediately!
보고 싶어서 맛있는 음식을 만들어줄게. 언니 지금 당장와. (Bogo sip-eoseo mas-issneun eumsig-eul mandeul-eojulge. Eonni jigeum dangjang-wa.)
I want to see you, so I’ll make delicious food. Sister, come right away.
Remember, using these phrases correctly will help ensure smooth and effective communication in various situations requiring a sense of urgency. Practice them regularly, and soon you’ll be able to convey the meaning of “right away” with confidence. Happy learning!
