たちまち

Alternative writings: 忽ち
JLPT:N2
Frequency:
1

In an instant; immediately; happening very quickly—used to say something occurs right away.

AdverbUsually Kana

Examples

たちまち部屋が静かになった。

The room went quiet in an instant.

薬を飲むと痛みがたちまち和らいだ。

When I took the medicine, the pain eased immediately.

知らせを聞くと彼はたちまち駆け出した。

When he heard the news, he ran off at once.

2

Suddenly; all of a sudden; used when something changes abruptly or happens all at once.

AdverbUsually Kana

Examples

空が曇り、たちまち嵐になった。

The sky clouded over and suddenly it became a storm.

観客は驚いてたちまち静まり返った。

The audience was surprised and suddenly fell silent.

事件の噂が広まり、たちまち街は混乱した。

Rumors of the incident spread and the town was suddenly thrown into confusion.