# gently

/ˈdʒɛntɫi/ (US) · /dʒˈɛntli/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/gently
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. softly or carefully

adverb · CEFR A2

doing something in a soft or careful way so you do not hurt anyone or break anything.

For teachers: performing an action with a light touch or minimal pressure to avoid injury or damage.

- He gently placed the sleeping baby in the crib so she wouldn't wake up.
- The nurse cleaned the wound gently, mindful of the patient's low pain threshold and the fragility of the surrounding skin.

### 2. gradually or slightly

adverb · CEFR B1

moving or changing in a slow, smooth way that is not sudden.

For teachers: characterised by a moderate or gradual slope, curve, or rate of change.

- The path climbed gently up the hill, making it an easy walk for everyone.
- The ground sloped gently toward the riverbank, providing an ideal natural drainage system for the newly planted vineyard.

### 3. kindly or calmly

adverb · CEFR B1

speaking or acting in a kind and calm way.

For teachers: acting with a mild temperament or using a tone that is persuasive rather than forceful.

- She gently reminded him that he had forgotten to call his mother.
- The teacher corrected the student's mistake gently, ensuring the child felt encouraged to try the exercise again.

## Examples

- She gently placed the sleeping baby in the crib.
- The nurse cleaned the wound gently to avoid causing the patient any unnecessary pain.
- The path slopes gently toward the valley floor, offering hikers an easy descent through the pine forest as the sun begins to set.

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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.