Word
firmly
Phoneticsfirm·ly, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈfɝmɫi/
UK/fˈɜːmli/
Adverb of manner
Definitions
01physically secure
B1 · Intermediate
adv. in a way that is strong and unlikely to move or break.
adv. with physical stability or strength; securely fixed in place.
“Make sure the lid is closed firmly so the paint doesn't dry out.”
“The structural beams were bolted firmly to the concrete foundation to ensure the building could withstand high winds.”
Usage
Usually follows the verb or the direct object.
02with certainty or resolve
B2 · Upper Intermediate
adv. in a way that shows you are certain about something and will not change your mind.
adv. with resolute intent or unwavering conviction; used for speech or beliefs.
“She firmly believes that everyone deserves a second chance.”
“The director firmly rejected the proposal, stating that it did not align with the company's long-term strategic goals.”
Usage
Often placed before the verb it modifies when expressing a belief or opinion.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Collocations
Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “firmly” in context.
Verb
01. firmly establish
“By the end of the decade, the company had firmly established itself as a market leader.”
adv + verb
Real-World Examples
“How firmly they are trapped depends on how the glass is prepared.” “One of Gimon’s takeaways is that we’re firmly in the era of utility-scale solar, with batteries playing a supporting role.” Etymology
From Middle English fermely; equivalent to firm + -ly.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
NOUN
ADJECTIVE
ADVERB
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Common
- Level
- B2 · Upper IntermediateOxford
- Updated
- アルファベット
- 読み方の一覧 →
QR code
englishreference.com/q/firmly