B1adverblanguage
US/ɪˈmiː.di.ət.li/
UK/ɪˈmiː.di.ət.li/
now or without waiting; also directly next to something
In context
Call an ambulance immediately if someone stops breathing.
She recognized him immediately, even after twenty years.
The new rules will take effect immediately after they are signed.
Words that go with immediately
verb + adverb
- leave immediatelyEveryone had to leave the building immediately.
- act immediatelyWe must act immediately to stop the leak.
- start immediatelyCan you start immediately?
adverb + adjective
- immediately clearIt was immediately clear that something was wrong.
- almost immediatelyThe medicine worked almost immediately.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
Please reply me immediately.Correct: Please reply to me immediately.