Meaning and Usage
"急激" (きゅうげき) describes something that happens suddenly and drastically, often referring to changes or movements that are sharp and rapid. It is commonly used in contexts like temperature changes, economic shifts, or physical conditions.
Common Collocations
- 急激な変化 (きゅうげきなへんか): sudden change
- 急激に上がる/下がる: to rise/fall sharply
- 急激な運動: sudden intense exercise
Nuances and Register
This word is somewhat formal and often appears in written or formal spoken Japanese, such as news reports or scientific descriptions. It implies a strong and noticeable degree of change.
Learner Tips
Be careful not to confuse 急激 with 急に (きゅうに), which means "suddenly" but is an adverb. 急激 is a な-adjective describing the nature of the change itself, not just the timing.