ENGLISH
REFERENCE

faintly

adv. manner
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈfeɪntɫi// UK //fˈeɪntli// faint·ly

adv. in a way that is not strong or clear. You use this to describe things you can only just see, hear, or feel.

adv. to a slight degree; in a manner that is barely perceptible or lacking in intensity.


SIMPLE

I could faintly hear music playing next door.

CONTEXTUAL

The old map was so worn that the names of the cities were only faintly visible under the lamp.

COMPLEX

She smiled faintly at the memory, though a trace of sadness remained in her eyes as she turned back to her work.

Origin

From Middle English feintli, feintliche, equivalent to faint + -ly.

Usage

Often modifies adjectives related to the senses, such as 'visible', 'audible', or 'scented'.

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