English Reference

00 / Grammar and structure

high vs highly

High describes physical elevation or a point on a scale, while highly functions as an intensifier meaning 'to a great degree'.

01 / Side by side

  • high

    Physical distance upward or a large amount.

    The birds were flying high above the clouds during the storm.

  • highly

    Extremely or to a very high degree.

    The manager gave her a highly favorable review during the meeting.

02 / Watch out

  • Wrong: The plane was flying highly over the mountain range.Right: The plane was flying high over the mountain range.

  • Wrong: The new software is high recommended for professional video editors.Right: The new software is highly recommended for professional video editors.

03 / Remember

High is for height; highly is for how much.

04 / Quick check

Fill the gap with one of the two options.

  1. 1.

    The lead developer is respected for her work on the new fitness tracking application.

  2. 2.

    The company reported profits for the third quarter this year.

  3. 3.

    The drone captured resolution footage of the mountain range during the summer heatwave.

  4. 4.

    It is unlikely that the flight will arrive on time today.

  5. 5.

    The latest streaming series is recommended by critics for its innovative visual style.

05 / More like this

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