一刻も早く
Grammar & Usage
How it works
This phrase combines '一刻' (ikkoku - a moment/an instant), the particle 'も' (mo - even/also, used here for emphasis), and the adverbial form of '早い' (hayai - early/fast), which is '早く' (hayaku). It literally means 'even one moment early/quickly' and is used to express urgency for something to happen without any delay.
Sample sentences
この件は重要なので、一刻も早く対応してください。
This matter is important, so please deal with it as soon as possible.
私たちは一刻も早く真実を知りたいと願っています。
We wish to know the truth as soon as possible.
事故現場は危険なため、一刻も早く避難が必要です。
The accident site is dangerous, so evacuation is needed without a moment's delay.
Quick facts
Often used with
Mnemonic
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Example
この件は重要なので、一刻も早く対応してください。
This matter is important, so please deal with it as soon as possible.
私たちは一刻も早く真実を知りたいと願っています。
We wish to know the truth as soon as possible.
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