Spoken English phrase
What does “right away” mean?
"Right away" means immediately or without delay. People say it to show quick action, often when answering a request or promising to fix a problem.
When people say it
- To answer a request politely: "Sure. I'll bring water right away."
- To promise a fast fix after a mistake: "I'm so sorry. I'll fix that right away."
- To say you will arrange help now: "I'll send someone up to fix it right away."
- In commands, it means immediately: "Come here right away."
Tone: Usually casual to neutral and polite; in service situations it sounds helpful. In commands, it can sound strong.
Careful: Do not read it word by word as "right + away." As one phrase, it means "immediately." Also, "right away" is not always this exact second; it means without unnecessary delay.
In 7 of Lin's scenes
Real lines from the scenes. Open one to watch it and say it yourself.
I'm so sorry. I'll fix that right away.The wrong dish arrived · Intermediate
I'll send someone up to fix it right away.Changing rooms at a hotel · Intermediate
Got it. I must've swapped two bags—I'll fix it right away.My delivery order is wrong · Advanced
Sure. I'll bring water right away.Food is too salty · Beginner
Sure, I'll bring one right away.Asking for a high chair · Beginner
Oh no, I'm sorry. Let me look into that right away.Complaining about slow service · Intermediate
Fair enough. I'll bring one right away.Finding a hair in your food · Beginner
Shadow
Line by line
Lin
I'm so sorry. I'll fix that right away.
Lin
I'll send someone up to fix it right away.
Lin
Got it. I must've swapped two bags—I'll fix it right away.
Other ways to say it
immediately
More formal and direct.
at once
Very close in meaning, but sometimes stronger.
in a moment
A little softer; usually very soon, not as sharp as "right away."
Quick answers
Is "right away" polite?
Yes. It is very common and polite when you are helping someone or responding to a request.
What is the difference between "right away" and "right now"?
Both mean very soon. "Right now" is stronger and focuses on this exact moment; "right away" often sounds smoother in helpful replies.