Immediate

Definition

Immediate is an adjective that describes something occurring instantly or without delay, or something nearest in time, relationship, or importance.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪˈmiːdiət/
• Respelling: ih-MEE-dee-uht

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪˈmiːdiət/
• Respelling: ih-MEE-dee-uht

Etymology

The word "immediate" originates from Late Latin "immediatus," meaning "without anything intervening," derived from "in-" (not) and "mediatus" (placed in the middle). It entered Middle English through Old French "immediat."

Derivatives

• Immediately (adverb)
• Immediacy (noun)
• Immediate-ness (noun)
• Immediate-action (noun, compound)
• Immediate-response (noun, compound)

Synonyms

• Instant
• Prompt
• Direct

Antonyms

• Delayed
• Indirect
• Postponed

Usage

The adjective "immediate" is widely used in various contexts. For example, "The patient requires immediate medical attention" emphasizes urgency, while "She is his immediate supervisor" refers to a direct relationship. It is often used to describe time, importance, or proximity.

Related Terms

• Instantaneous: Happening in an instant.
• Urgent: Requiring quick action or attention.
• Proximal: Situated nearest in relation or time.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Occurring or done at once; instant: Refers to something happening without delay.
  • Example: "The fire department provided immediate assistance."
• Nearest in time, relationship, or importance: Refers to something closest in proximity or priority.
  • Example: "The immediate cause of the accident was identified."
• Having no intervening medium or agent: Refers to directness in action or communication.
  • Example: "The manager took immediate control of the situation."