English Reference
Adverb

beautifully

adv. manner
A2 Elementary US /ˈbjutəfɫi/ UK /bjˈuːtɪfəli/ beau·ti·ful·ly

adv.in a way that is very attractive or pleasing to look at or listen to. You use it to describe something done with great skill or grace.

adv.in a manner that possesses or creates aesthetic excellence or grace. Often used to modify verbs related to performance, creation, or appearance.


SIMPLE

She sings beautifully and everyone stops to listen.

CONTEXTUAL

The old house was beautifully restored using original materials from the nineteenth century.

COMPLEX

The author beautifully weaves together multiple plot lines, creating a narrative that feels both complex and effortless by the final chapter.

Usage

Manner adverb — typically placed after the verb it modifies or at the end of the clause.

Pitfall
She sings beautifulShe sings beautifully

Learners often use the adjective 'beautiful' instead of the adverb 'beautifully' to describe an action.


From beautiful + -ly, circa 17th century.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Level A2 · Elementary
Frequency Frequent
Updated