forthwith

Everyday

(formal) Forthwith means immediately, at once, without delay. tree →

In the lessons

Used in very formal notices, laws, old stories and official letters: "You must leave forthwith." In everyday talk say "right now" or "at once". Phrases: with effect forthwith, leave forthwith.

Examples

• The king ordered the thief to be taken to prison forthwith. tree →
• The rule applies forthwith. tree →
• You are to report to the head teacher forthwith. tree →
• The judge said the dog must be returned forthwith. tree →
• Payment is due forthwith. tree →
• The guards left the castle forthwith. tree →
• Ivan began playing on his fife, and forthwith they all fell a-dancing. tree →

Note

Old-fashioned and formal; one word. It never changes form. Do not confuse with "forth" (forward) or "forthcoming" (coming soon).

Early Modern English

Meaning

immediately, without any delay. tree →

Then and now

An old word, mostly found in formal writing today; we say at once.

Examples

• Ivan began playing on his fife, and forthwith they all fell a-dancing. (Cossack Fairy Tales and Folk Tales) tree →
• Forthwith the other Cock came out of his corner and ruled the roost without a rival. (Aesop's Fables; a new translation) tree →
• He was thankful enough to use his remaining wish to a more humble purpose, and forthwith relieved his wife of her encumbrance. (The Fairy Tales of Charles Perrault) tree →

Note

Today: at once.