Immediate
/ɪˈmiːdiət/
Definitions
2 meaningsHappening or done instantly or without any delay.
/ɪˈmiːdiət/
Happening or done at once; without delay
We need to take immediate action to address this problem.
💡 Simply: Think of it like this: If you ask for something immediate, you want it NOW! Like, if you're super thirsty, you want an immediate drink!
👶 For kids: Right away, like if you want a toy and you want it now!
More Examples
The fire department arrived immediately after the alarm was sounded.
The effects of the medicine were not immediate; they took some time to manifest.
How It's Used
"The CEO demanded an immediate response to the crisis."
"The patient required immediate medical attention."
"I need immediate access to the internet to finish my project."
Being next to or closest in space or time.
/ɪˈmiːdiət/
Close in space or time; direct
The immediate area around the crash site was cordoned off.
💡 Simply: This is like saying something is right next to you. Like, your immediate family are your parents and siblings.
👶 For kids: Being very close to something, like your mom and dad!
More Examples
Her immediate family was deeply affected by the news.
The immediate effect of the sun was a sunburn.
How It's Used
"The immediate surroundings of the lake are beautiful."
"She sought comfort from her immediate family."
Idioms & expressions
immediate past
The time directly before the present moment
"In the immediate past, the weather has been very cold."
immediate future
The time soon to come
"The company plans to expand in the immediate future."
From Latin *immediatus*, meaning 'not mediated, without an intermediary'. Derived from *in-* (not) + *medius* (middle, intervening).
Used since the early 16th century, initially with the meaning of 'direct' or 'without mediation'. The sense of 'instant' evolved later.
Memory tip
Imagine an emergency. You need immediate help – right now!