finely
adv. manneradv. into very small pieces, or in a way that shows great attention to detail. You use this when something is done with high quality or precision.
adv. into very small particles or thin pieces; alternatively, in a subtle or highly precise manner. Often describes physical texture or the quality of a distinction.
Chop the onions finely before adding them to the pan.
The chef insisted that the herbs be finely chopped to ensure the flavor was distributed evenly throughout the sauce.
The legal argument was finely balanced, requiring the judge to consider the subtle nuances of intent versus the literal interpretation of the statute.
From Middle English finely, fynely, fynly, fineliche, finliche, fynliche, equivalent to fine + -ly.
Typically placed before the past participle or adjective it modifies, or after the verb in physical contexts like cooking.