DictionaryAI

clearly

adverb
SayKLEER-lee/ˈklɪɚli/UK/ˈklɪəli/

2 meanings of clearly

Practice

  1. 1
    obviouslyadverbmodal
    Obviously, in a way that leaves no doubt because it is easy to see.

    Clearly, someone forgot to lock the door last night.

    The team clearly needed more practice before the big game.

    UsageAt the start of a sentence, Clearly, means it is easy to see that this is true.

  2. 2
    distinctlyadverb
    In a way that is easy to see, hear, or understand.

    Like wiping fog off a window so everything is easy to see.

    Please speak clearly so everyone in the back can hear you.

    The directions were written clearly, so we found the house without trouble.

    UsagePut it after the verb: speak clearly, write clearly.

    Similarplainly, distinctly, lucidly

    Oppositevaguely, indistinctly

    Note

Use it in a sentence

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Origin

From Middle English clerli, made from "clear" plus "-ly".

Checked 5 Nov 2026 · 1 fact

  • Clearly derives from Middle English clerli and consists of clear plus -ly. en.wiktionary.org