umgehend
immediately · immediate
Etwas soll sehr schnell oder sofort gemacht werden.
The German word "umgehend" is an adjective or adverb meaning "immediate", "prompt", or "without delay". It comes from the word "umgehen" (to go around, to handle) combined with the suffix "-end", indicating an ongoing or immediate action.
- umgehen: literally to go around, bypass, or handle.
Similar words include:
- sofort (immediately, instantly)
- direkt (direct)
- gleich (right away)
Difference:
- umgehend emphasizes promptness in action, often used in formal or official contexts (e.g., "umgehende Antwort" = immediate response).
- sofort is more general and can be used in everyday contexts for immediate action.
- direkt focuses more on directness rather than timing.
- gleich can mean "soon" or "right now", sometimes less formal than "umgehend".
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Examples
Der Bericht muss umgehend eingereicht werden.adverb
The report must be submitted immediately.
Bitte antworten Sie umgehend.adverb
Please respond immediately.
Wir kümmern uns umgehend darum.adverb
We will take care of it immediately.
Eine umgehende Entscheidung war in dieser Situation notwendig.adjective
An immediate decision was necessary in this situation.
Ich bitte um eine umgehende Rückzahlung.adjective
I request an immediate refund.
Bei starkem Rauch verlassen Sie umgehend das Gebäude.adverb
In case of heavy smoke, leave the building immediately.
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