immediate Definition
- 1occurring or done instantly; without delay
- 2closest in relationship or rank
Using immediate: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "immediate" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
We need to take immediate action to solve this problem.
Example
The company is facing immediate financial difficulties.
Example
I have an immediate family of four.
Example
The immediate cause of the accident is still unknown.
immediate Synonyms and Antonyms
Idioms Using immediate
jump at the chance/opportunity (to do something) immediately
to eagerly accept or take advantage of an opportunity as soon as it arises
Example
When I was offered the job in New York, I jumped at the chance immediately.
Example
There are no restaurants in the immediate vicinity of the hotel.
Example
The nursing home was cited for immediate jeopardy after a resident fell and broke her hip.
Phrases with immediate
immediate gratification
the experience of pleasure or satisfaction without delay or deferment
Example
Social media provides us with immediate gratification, but it can also be addictive.
Example
Only immediate family members are allowed to visit the patient in the ICU.
a person who holds a higher rank or position in an organization than someone else
Example
If you have any problems, please report them to your immediate superior.
Origins of immediate
from Latin 'immediatus', meaning 'without anything between'
Summary: immediate in Brief
The term 'immediate' [ɪˈmiːdiət] refers to something that happens or is done instantly, without delay. It can also describe the closest relationships or ranks. Examples include 'We need to take immediate action to solve this problem.' and 'I have an immediate family of four.' Phrases like 'immediate gratification' and idioms like 'jump at the chance/opportunity (to do something) immediately' highlight the importance of immediacy in various contexts.