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What does "ASAP (asappu)" mean? How to use it in business and how to paraphrase it in Japanese.

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Do you know the term "ASAP (asappu)"? "ASAP" is an acronym often used in the business world when a quick response is required.

This article will explain in detail the English meaning of "ASAP" as well as its usage in Japanese and paraphrased expressions. We will also give you some points to note when using the word "ASAP". If you would like to deepen your understanding of "ASAP" in order to facilitate smooth communication in business situations, please read this article to the end.

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What does 「ASAP（アサップ）」 mean?

"ASAP" is an acronym that stands for "as soon as possible. ASAP" is an English expression meaning "as soon as possible. In other words, "ASAP" is used to mean "as soon as possible" or "as soon as possible.

The most common notation for "ASAP" is "ASAP. It can also be found with a period, as in "A.S.A.P.", or with only the first letter capitalized, as in "Asap". The notation "asap" with only lowercase letters gives a casual impression. However, the meaning does not change depending on the notation.

Just to be sure, let's check the meaning of each word that makes up "as soon as possible".

  • as: like ~, as in ~
  • soon: immediately, quickly
  • as: like ~, as in ~
  • possible: possible, feasible

Combined, these words mean "as soon as possible. This expression is used frequently in both daily conversation and in business situations, so it is important to understand it well.

Paraphrasing "ASAP (asappu)" in Japanese

The following paraphrase is often used to describe "ASAP" in Japanese.

  • できるだけ早く (dekiru dake hayaku)
  • なるべく早く（なるはやで） (narubeku hayaku (naruhaya de))
  • 早急に (sōkyū ni)
  • 至急で (shikyū de)
  • 早いうちに (hayai uchi ni)
  • 急いで (isoide)
  • 可能な限り早く (kanō na kagiri hayaku)
  • 迅速に (jinsoku ni)
  • 可能な限り急いで (kanō na kagiri isoide)
  • 早めに (hayame ni)
  • 速やかに (sumiyaka ni)
  • 出来る限り早期に (dekiru kagiri sōki ni)
  • 最短で (saitan de)
  • 最速で (saisoku de)

These expressions are used, like "ASAP", when requesting something to be done urgently. It's important to choose the appropriate alternative expression depending on the situation. For example, "至急で" (shikyū de) and "速やかに" (sumiyaka ni) are often used in more formal settings. On the other hand, expressions like "なるはやで" (naruhaya de) and "早めに" (hayame ni) are easier to use in casual situations.

Also, by adding the phrase "可能な限り" (as much as possible), you can convey your desire for a quick response while considering the other person's circumstances. Taking the other person's position into account and communicating flexibly will lead to smooth progress in work.

Notes on the use of "ASAP (asappu)" in business situations

There are several points to be aware of when using "ASAP" in business settings. First, "ASAP" is an abbreviation and a casual expression, so it should not be used in formal situations. For important meetings, presentations, or formal email exchanges with business partners, it's more appropriate to use Japanese expressions such as "できるだけ早く" (dekiru dake hayaku).

Also, it's better to avoid using "ASAP" with superiors or those in higher positions. "ASAP" can give a somewhat forceful impression and might cause discomfort to the recipient. When addressing superiors or those in higher positions, it's advisable to use polite phrases like "お手すきの際で構いませんが、できるだけ早めにご対応いただけますと幸いです" (I understand you're busy, but I would appreciate it if you could respond as soon as possible).

On the other hand, when interacting with colleagues and subordinates, the use of "ASAP" can effectively convey the high priority of a task. However, if used too frequently, it may give the impression that you are always in a hurry. Use it only when the urgency is high.

Furthermore, it is best to avoid using "ASAP" in the subject line of an email. The subject line alone does not convey the details of the situation and may put unnecessary pressure on the recipient. Keep the subject line brief and specific, and use "ASAP" in the body of the message.

When using "ASAP," it is important to consider the other party's situation and determine if there is a real need for urgency. Do not use "ASAP" easily, but be sure to use it in appropriate situations.

How to use "ASAP (asappu)" in business / Example sentences

Let's look at some specific examples of using "ASAP" in business situations. While "ASAP" is effective when you need a quick response from the other party, it is important to determine the situation in which you will use it. Try using it in the following situations.

Business usage and examples of "ASAP (asappu)" (1)

When you ask a colleague to prepare urgent documents

この資料をなるべく早めに作成してください。(Please prepare this document as soon as possible.)
→この資料をASAPで作成してください。

How to use "ASAP (asappu)" in business / Example sentences

When asking the other party to do something that needs to be done urgently

急ぎでやってほしい仕事があります。大至急オフィスへ戻ってください。(There's an urgent task I need you to do. Please return to the office immediately.)
→急ぎでやってほしい仕事があります。ASAPでオフィスへ戻ってください。

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summary

This article focused on the term "ASAP (asappu)", which is frequently used in business settings, and explained its meaning and usage in detail. "ASAP" is an abbreviation for "as soon as possible", meaning to do something as quickly as one can. In business scenarios, "ASAP" can be used to convey the priority of a task when urgent action is required. Japanese equivalent expressions include "なるべく早く" (narubeku hayaku), "早急に" (sōkyū ni), and "至急で" (shikyū de).

However, be careful how you use "ASAP". Avoid using it in formal situations or with superiors or superiors. On the other hand, "ASAP" can be used to convey urgency in correspondence with colleagues and subordinates, but care should be taken not to overuse it. Also, avoid using "ASAP" in the subject line of an e-mail, and use it in the body of the message.

When using "ASAP," it is important to consider the situation of the other party and determine if there is a real need to hurry. By using "ASAP" appropriately according to the situation, you will be able to communicate effectively. Through this article, we hope you will deepen your understanding of the meaning and usage of "ASAP" and put it into practice in business situations.

Please take a look at our other articles on Business Japanese.

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