How to say "urgent" in Japanese
Choosing the right word
- 至急しきゅうno-adjectiveCovers 'urgent' in the sense of 'as soon as possible': you use it in messages and requests to ask that something be done right away, with the emphasis on speed.
- 当面とうめんno-adjective, adverbReally means 'for the time being; at present.' Its 'urgent' sense is the pressing matter you face right now — an immediate problem or concern — not a request for quick action.
- 喫緊きっきんno-adjective, na-adjectiveDescribes issues or tasks that demand immediate attention, as in discussion of problems that cannot wait. It labels the matter itself as pressing rather than urging anyone to hurry.
- 緊要きんようna-adjective, nounStresses that something is momentous or critically important rather than that it must be done quickly. For the 'please hurry' sense of 'urgent' it is seldom the word you want.
- 早急そうきゅうna-adjective, no-adjectiveCovers 'urgent' as 'immediate; prompt,' emphasizing that something should be done or handled without delay. It sits close to 至急 and is typical of requests and instructions for prompt action.
Use 至急 or 早急 when urging prompt action; 当面 points to the pressing matter at hand rather than speed; 喫緊 and 緊要 describe pressing or critical issues, with 緊要 stressing importance over hurry.
Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only
Japanese equivalents
See also
This browser can't play pronunciations (needs Safari 18.4 or later, or Chrome / Edge / Firefox).
