01
ruckzuck
in no time
A colloquial expression meaning that something happens very quickly and without delay.
example
Keine Sorge, die Reparatur ist ruckzuck erledigt.
Don't worry, the repair will be done in no time.
ruckzuck
in no time
Checking...
Loading your saved state.
Meanings
Usage tips
Word structure
'Ruckzuck' (in no time) is an onomatopoeic reduplication made up of 'Ruck' (sudden movement) and 'Zuck' (short, quick movement). It conveys the image of something happening almost instantly and effortlessly.
EXAMPLE
Die Kinder haben ihr Zimmer ruckzuck aufgeräumt.
The children tidied up their room in no time.
Register: colloquial
This word clearly belongs to colloquial language. It is often used in spoken language to express speed, but it usually sounds inappropriate in formal or written contexts.
EXAMPLE
Warte kurz, ich bin ruckzuck wieder da!
Wait a moment, I'll be back in no time!
Sentence position
As an adverb, 'ruckzuck' (in no time) is flexible. It can stand in position 1, which forces the verb into the second position, or it can be placed inside the sentence.
EXAMPLE
Ruckzuck war der ganze Kuchen aufgegessen.
In no time, the whole cake had been eaten.
Compare with
ruckzuck vs schnell
fast / quick
'schnell' and 'ruckzuck' both say that something happens in a short time. 'schnell' is neutral and works in both formal and informal situations. 'ruckzuck' is colloquial and especially emphasizes that something is done very quickly. It sounds casual and fits well in conversations with friends, family, or colleagues. In a job application or an official text, 'schnell' is more natural. In everyday life, 'ruckzuck' can sound friendlier and more lively.
ruckzuck
Am Abend räumen sie das Wohnzimmer ruckzuck auf.
In the evening, they tidy up the living room in no time.
schnell
Im Büro beantwortet die Lehrerin schnell eine Nachricht.
At the office, the teacher quickly answers a message.
In real life
Loading video examples...