What does "actively" mean?

1. (with energy and effort) doing something with energy, focus, and a clear plan rather than just letting things happen. 2. (grammar) using the active form of a verb, where the subject does the action.

How do you use "actively"?

Often placed before the verb it modifies to emphasise intentionality. Used primarily in linguistic or grammatical analysis.

actively

adv.

US //ˈæktɪvɫi// UK //ˈæktɪvli// ac·tive·ly

1 with energy and effort (adv.)
B2 Upper Intermediate

doing something with energy, focus, and a clear plan rather than just letting things happen.

in an energetic, diligent, or intentional manner; involving direct participation rather than passive observation.

Example

The company is actively looking for new employees to join the team this summer.

Example

Despite the economic downturn, the local council is actively seeking investment to revitalise the historic city centre.

Usage

Often placed before the verb it modifies to emphasise intentionality.
- energetically
- vigorously
- proactively
- passively
- idly
2 grammar (adv.)
C1 Advanced Technical Academic Science

using the active form of a verb, where the subject does the action.

expressed in the active voice rather than the passive voice.

Example

In this sentence, the verb is used actively because the subject performs the action.

Example

The student was advised to rewrite the paragraph more actively to ensure the agent of each action remained clear to the reader.

Usage

Used primarily in linguistic or grammatical analysis.

Teacher's tip

This sense is highly technical; learners should focus on sense 1 for everyday communication.
- passively

Origin

From late Middle English actyvely; equivalent to active + -ly.

Word family

Adverbactively
Adverbretroactively