straightaway

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "straightaway" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that something should be done immediately or without delay. Example: "Please send me the report straightaway so that I can review it before the meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

In training if we see anyone that's off their feet or half an inch offside, we pull them up straightaway.

The Guardian - Sport

"Whether I'm going to use it straightaway I'm not too sure.

The Guardian - Sport

Minutes later, to sighs of relief, Miliband arrived and was led straightaway to the stage where an unfeasibly loud band had been drowning the assembled schmoozers for far took long.

The Guardian

Mr Cardoso, despite a much stronger coalition, failed to gain approval for these (or at least, not enough of them).Such cuts are all the more necessary since Mr da Silva says that he will start straightaway to fulfil his promises to fight poverty.

The Economist

In answer to a question as to what would happen in the event that the policy failed, Russell said that a war before Russia had nuclear weapons would be less disastrous than one after she had them—he did not infer from this that a war should be started straightaway.

The Economist

Shouldn't it mean to them, straightaway, that their nitwitticism is unequal to the task of understanding the way the caste system operates, how diversity is accommodated and so on and on or, in other words, see they are plainly wrong (as in not ever finding that the "other backward classes" are more sharply discriminative against the untouchables than "Brahmins").

The Economist

Mr Yar'Adua's spokesman said he would not return to work straightaway and that Mr Jonathan would stay in charge while he recuperates.

The Economist

He seems to have lost a little support over the clashes and the decision not to cut off PA revenues straightaway, but mainstream Israelis tend to blame the settler youth for the violence.

The Economist

The idea, it seems, is not to restart any fighting straightaway, but to reserve the right to make mischief in the future.Locals are busy adjusting to life in Lebanon.

The Economist

Last October, when Mr Kabila's Alliance of Democratic Forces won some early victories in the border region, his men did not head straightaway into Congo but first went north to attack the Ugandan rebels' bases.

The Economist

The first paintings in the exhibition are those he made while under Pacheco's tutelage, and the visitor's eye is drawn straightaway to his picture of the Immaculate Conception (1618-19).

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "straightaway" to emphasize that an action should be performed without any hesitation or delay. It adds a sense of urgency and directness to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "straightaway" in highly formal or academic writing where more precise or elevated vocabulary might be expected. Consider "immediately" or "forthwith" in those contexts instead.

Linguistic Context

The adverb "straightaway" primarily functions to modify verbs, indicating that an action should be carried out immediately or without delay. As Ludwig AI shows, this usage is prevalent across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Encyclopedias

15%

Science

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the adverb "straightaway" is a grammatically sound and common way to indicate immediacy. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's frequently used in news, encyclopedias, and scientific contexts. While versatile, it is advisable to choose more formal alternatives like "immediately" or "forthwith" in formal settings. Remember to use "straightaway" to emphasize quick action, and consider synonyms such as "at once" or "right away" to diversify your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Immediately

Focuses on the lack of delay; a direct synonym often interchangeable with "straightaway".

At once

Emphasizes promptness and is suitable for commands or urgent situations.

Right away

A more informal way to express immediacy, commonly used in everyday conversation.

Instantly

Highlights the speed at which something happens, implying virtually no delay.

Directly

Can refer to both time and space, indicating a lack of intermediaries or detours.

Forthwith

A more formal and somewhat archaic term for immediately, suitable for legal or official contexts.

Without delay

Emphasizes the absence of any postponement, suitable for serious or urgent situations.

Promptly

Highlights acting quickly and efficiently, often used in professional contexts.

In short order

Indicates that something will be done quickly and efficiently, though not necessarily instantaneously.

On the double

An informal phrase, typically used as a command, indicating that something needs to be done very quickly.

FAQs

How can I use "straightaway" in a sentence?

You can use "straightaway" to indicate that something should be done immediately or without delay. For example: "Please send me the report "straightaway" so that I can review it before the meeting."

What is the difference between "straightaway" and "immediately"?

"Straightaway" and "immediately" are largely interchangeable, but "straightaway" can sometimes carry a slightly more informal or colloquial tone than "immediately". Choose the word that best fits the context and the desired level of formality.

What are some synonyms for "straightaway"?

Some synonyms for "straightaway" include "at once", "right away", "instantly", and "directly". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired nuance.

Is it correct to use "straightaway" in formal writing?

While "straightaway" is grammatically correct, it is generally more suited for informal or neutral contexts. In formal writing, consider using alternatives like "immediately" or "forthwith" for a more sophisticated tone.