сразу vs сначала
srazu vs snachala — immediately/all at once vs at first/first
Register: neutral
What it really means
Сразу means immediately, straight away, or all at once: call me сразу. Сначала means first, at the beginning, or initially. It orders events or contrasts an early stage with what followed.
Сначала ... потом is a common sequence. Сразу does not mean “first”; it emphasizes absence of delay.
Examples in natural speech
Я сразу понял, в чём проблема.
I understood the problem immediately.
Не отвечай сразу, подумай.
Don't answer at once; think.
Сначала прочитай текст, потом отвечай.
First read the text, then answer.
Сначала было трудно, но потом стало легче.
At first it was difficult, but then it got easier.
Все заговорили сразу.
Everyone began speaking at once.
Common mistakes
Сначала is not an urgent “right now.” For “Do it immediately,” say сделай сразу. For “first do this,” say сначала сделай это.
Memory tip
Сначала points to the start; сразу removes the wait.
Frequently asked questions
How do I say at first?
Сначала.
How do I say right away?
Сразу or сразу же.
Can сразу mean all together?
Yes: все сразу means everyone/all at once.
Note: This site uses JavaScript for interactive drills, audio playback, and progress tracking. Please enable JavaScript for the full experience.