# duly

/ˈduɫi/ (US) · /djˈuːli/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/duly
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. properly or as expected

adverb · CEFR C1 · Formal

in the correct way, or as you were asked to do.

For teachers: in a proper or fitting manner; according to what is required or expected.

- He was duly elected as the new chairman of the committee.
- After the board reviewed the proposal, the contract was duly signed by both parties in the presence of their legal counsel.

Usage: Typically placed before a past participle or at the beginning of a clause to confirm an action followed a rule.

### 2. at the right time

adverb · CEFR C1 · Formal

at the time that was planned or expected.

For teachers: at the proper or expected time; punctually.

- The train duly arrived at the station at ten o'clock.
- The annual report was duly submitted before the end of the fiscal year, ensuring the company remained in compliance with local regulations.

## Examples

- He received the letter and duly signed it.
- After the committee reached a decision, the minutes were duly recorded and shared with all members.
- Having been warned of the potential legal consequences, the directors duly filed the necessary paperwork before the midnight deadline to ensure compliance with the new regulations.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.