What it means
Expresses that a second action happens immediately after the first. Attaches directly to the verb stem (no tense marker). Both clauses must share or logically connect subjects.
Nuance & when to use
Emphasises immediacy and automaticity — almost no gap between the two events. More emphatic than -(으)면 or -고 나서.
⚠ Common mistake
Adding tense markers before -자마자 (e.g. ×했자마자) is wrong. The stem goes directly before -자마자.
Example sentences
집에 도착하자마자 씻었어요.
Jibe dochakhamaja ssisseosseoyo.
I washed up as soon as I got home.
알람이 울리자마자 일어났어요.
Allami ullijamaja ireonasseoyo.
I got up the moment my alarm went off.
그 소식을 듣자마자 연락했어요.
Geu sosiguel deutjamaja yeollakhaesseoyo.
I contacted them as soon as I heard the news.
See also
-고 나서
-면 바로
FAQ
When is this used?
Emphasises immediacy and automaticity — almost no gap between the two events. More emphatic than -(으)면 or -고 나서.
What's a common mistake?
Adding tense markers before -자마자 (e.g. ×했자마자) is wrong. The stem goes directly before -자마자.
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