ENGLISH
REFERENCE

golly

interj. countable
C2 Proficiency US //ˈɡɑɫi// UK //ɡˈɒli// gol·ly

interj. a word used to show that you are surprised or impressed. It is an old-fashioned way to react to something unexpected.

interj. an exclamation of surprise, wonder, or shock. Historically used as a euphemism for 'God', it is now considered dated or quaint in most contexts.


SIMPLE

Golly, I didn't expect to see you here today!

CONTEXTUAL

Golly, that is a massive cake you have baked for the party.

COMPLEX

The elderly gentleman looked at the modern smartphone and whispered, 'Golly, things certainly have changed since I was a lad,' with a mixture of confusion and genuine awe.

Usage

Used as a standalone exclamation or to introduce a sentence; carries a polite, old-fashioned tone.

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