A simple and direct method for preparation of vinylaziridines via an y
lide route is described; dimethylsulfonium allylides or dimethylsulfon
ium cinnamylides, produced in situ from the corresponding allylic sulf
onium salts and solid potassium hydroxide in acetonitrile at room temp
erature, react efficiently with N-sulfonylimines to furnish vinylaziri
dines rapidly with excellent yields.