Clearly

Definition

Clearly is an adverb used to indicate that something is easy to see, understand, or interpret. It implies transparency, obviousness, or distinctness in perception or meaning.

Parts of Speech

• Adverb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈklɪrli/
• Respelling: KLEER-lee

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈklɪəli/
• Respelling: KLEER-lee

Etymology

The word "clearly" originates from the Latin "clarus," meaning "clear or bright." It evolved through Old French "clerement" to Middle English "clerly" and "clearly," retaining its meaning related to clarity or transparency.

Derivatives

• Clear (adjective/verb)
• Clearness (noun)
• Clarify (verb)
• Clarification (noun)
• Clarifier (noun)

Synonyms

• Obviously
• Plainly
• Evidently

Antonyms

• Unclearly
• Ambiguously
• Obscurely

Usage

The term "clearly" is often used to emphasize understanding or perception in various contexts, such as "She spoke clearly," or "The instructions were clearly written."

Related Terms

• Transparency: The quality of being clear or easy to see through.
• Clarification: The act of making something clearer or more understandable.
• Definition: The clarity or precision of meaning in words or concepts.

Detailed Definitions

Adverb

• In a way that is easy to see, understand, or perceive: Used to indicate that something is obvious or easily understood.
  • Example: "The road signs were clearly visible."
• Without a doubt; obviously: Emphasizes certainty or unambiguousness.
  • Example: "He was clearly the best candidate for the job."