English Reference
Adverb

creatively

adv. manner
B2 Upper Intermediate US /kɹiˈeɪtɪvɫi/ UK /kɹiːˈeɪtɪvli/ cre·ative·ly

adv.to do something in a way that uses new or original ideas. You use this when you solve a problem or make something by thinking differently.

adv.in a manner that involves the use of imagination or original ideas to create something new. Often describes the process of artistic production or innovative problem-solving.


SIMPLE

She solved the difficult puzzle creatively.

CONTEXTUAL

The marketing team worked creatively to design a campaign that would appeal to younger audiences on a limited budget.

COMPLEX

By applying existing technologies creatively to the problem of water filtration, the engineers developed a low-cost solution that could be manufactured using local materials.

Usage

Typically follows the verb it modifies or the direct object.

Pitfall
He thinks very creative.He thinks very creatively.

Learners often use the adjective 'creative' where the adverb 'creatively' is required to modify a verb.

Singapore is one of the world's fastest aging countries and its seniors are embracing the challenge of staying healthy creatively.

BBC News· 14 Aug 2026

Smith says they were at their “most depressed or creatively stunted” during that chase.

The Guardian· 14 Aug 2026
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Occasional
Updated