välittömästi

Välittömästi is a Finnish adverb meaning immediately or without delay. It indicates that an action should occur without any intervening time, often used in both spoken language and written directives, instructions, and formal communications.

Etymology and form: the word derives from the adjective välitön, meaning immediate, with the adverbial suffix -sti that forms adverbs. As an adverb, välittömästi typically modifies verbs and appears in imperative or descriptive clauses.

Usage and nuance: välittömästi is commonly used to emphasize the need for prompt action. It can appear in everyday speech, workplace notices, safety guidelines, and legal or administrative texts. In legal or safety contexts the term conveys a strong obligation to act right away; in other contexts it may simply express a request or expectation to proceed without delay.

Examples:

- Ilmoita välittömästi, jos tilanne muuttuu. (Inform immediately if the situation changes.)

- Siirry välittömästi, ennen kuin tilanne pahenee. (Move immediately before the situation worsens.)

Synonyms and related terms: viipymättä (without delay) is a closely related adverb with similar meaning, though usage can vary by formality and emphasis. Other expressions conveying urgency include mahdollisimman pian (as soon as possible) or nyt (now), depending on the precision required.

See also: välitön, välittömyys, viipymättä.