RIGHT OFF THE BAT

{adv. phr.} Immediately; as the next thing in order; without delay. * /Phil's mother told him to do his homework right away so that he could enjoy the weekend./ * /The Red Cross aids disaster victims right away./ * /Jill knew the answer right off./ * /The teacher said he could not think of the title of the book right off the bat./ Syn.: AT ONCE(2). Compare: HERE AND NOW, ON THE SPOT. Contrast: AFTER A WHILE.