tout de suite

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "tout de suite" is correct and usable in written English, particularly in informal contexts.
It is typically used to mean "right away" or "immediately," often to emphasize urgency. Example: "Please send me the report tout de suite, as the meeting starts in ten minutes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

26 human-written examples

… well, not tout de suite.

The New Yorker

Your side must cash four spade tricks tout de suite.

The New York Times

– and once this World Cup is over, he'll be heading for France tout de suite.

Independent

And they're bearing tons of it: some 20,000 bottles to be tasted, tout de suite!

The New York Times

He managed to croak a cheeky reply that became an instant legend: "Oui... mais pas de femme tout de suite".

The Guardian - Sport

So when the truth pops out, and you manage to offend, apologize tout de suite — especially when you're in the right, as your partner seems to have been.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

34 human-written examples

(Or "toute de suite," if you're… you know. French).

TechCrunch

My head protrudes over the rim, my eyes behold the Buracão (big hole) waterfall in all its magnificent flashy, splashy grandeur, Mother Vertigo takes over, I quickly press the camera shatter with no idea whether it's caught the flashy splash or not, and slither back tout-de-suite like the cowardly little caterpillar that I am.

Huffington Post

Droit de suite, extradition : quelles coopérations ?

Stanford University

Bien que les migrations forcées de Haïtiens vers la République Dominicaine ont été un sujet d'intérêt pour de nombreux rapports et procédures légales internationales, il existe tout de même très peu de données quantitatives à cet égard.

University of California, Berkeley

Many living artists, including Hockney, Caro and Hodgkin, have expressed passionate opposition to droit de suite.

The Guardian - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Because "tout de suite" may not be universally understood, consider using it in contexts where the audience is likely to be familiar with French or where you want to create a specific tone or atmosphere.

Common error

Avoid using "tout de suite" in strictly formal or professional documents where clarity and straightforwardness are paramount. Opt for more conventional English alternatives like "immediately" or "at once" to ensure your message is universally understood and perceived as professional.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "tout de suite" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to indicate the timing of an action. It specifies that something should be done immediately, as supported by Ludwig, mirroring the meaning of English adverbs like "immediately".

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Formal & Business

12%

Science

3%

Less common in

Academia

8%

Wiki

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "tout de suite" is a French phrase meaning "immediately" or "right away" that's commonly used in English to add a touch of flair or urgency. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is grammatically sound and suitable for use, particularly in informal or cosmopolitan contexts. While it appears frequently in News & Media, it's essential to consider your audience and the formality of the setting before using it. Alternatives like "immediately" or "right away" are more appropriate for formal communications.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

tout de suite

French phrase meaning 'immediately' or 'right away'

immediately

Single word alternative that conveys the same sense of urgency and promptness, offering a more concise option.

right away

Common English idiom for immediate action, providing a direct and easily understood alternative.

at once

Formal synonym for "immediately", suitable for more professional contexts while retaining the meaning.

instantly

Highlights the instantaneous nature of the action, focusing on the minimal time lapse.

without delay

Emphasizes the lack of waiting time, highlighting the need for quick action.

forthwith

Archaic but impactful synonym, suggesting an even greater degree of urgency and formality.

in short order

Idiomatic expression suggesting a task will be completed quickly and efficiently.

on the double

Emphasizes the speed and urgency with which something should be done, typically in a military or highly disciplined context.

pronto

Borrowed from Spanish or Italian, conveying a sense of speed and readiness.

FAQs

What does "tout de suite" mean in English?

"Tout de suite" is a French phrase that translates to "immediately" or "right away" in English. It is used to indicate that something should be done without delay.

When is it appropriate to use "tout de suite" in writing?

It's appropriate to use "tout de suite" in informal contexts or when you want to add a touch of French flair. However, in formal or professional settings, it's better to use English alternatives like "immediately" or "right away".

What are some alternatives to "tout de suite"?

Some English alternatives to "tout de suite" include "immediately", "right away", "at once", and "without delay".

Is "tout de suite" considered formal or informal?

"Tout de suite" is generally considered informal. While it's understandable in many contexts, using it in formal writing might be seen as out of place. Opt for alternatives like "immediately" or "at once" in formal situations.