SuGoiSuす語彙すGrammar › N1 · 02 Time and sequence
〜が早いか: the moment; as soon as
N1 · 02 Time and sequence
Describes one action followed instantly by another, often a sudden reaction.
Verb dictionary form (sometimes た-form) + が早いか. The first action triggers the second right away, often a rush or a reflex. Written or lively storytelling. Similar to 〜や否や, which is more formal.
Examples
授業が終わるが早いか、彼女は教室を飛び出していった。
The moment class ended, she rushed out of the classroom.
電車のドアが開くが早いか、乗客たちは我先にと降りていった。
The moment the train doors opened, the passengers hurried out one after another.