ENGLISH
REFERENCE

gracefully

adv. manner
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈɡɹeɪsfəɫi// UK //ɡɹˈeɪsfəli// grace·ful·ly

adv. in a way that is smooth, relaxed, and attractive. You use this to describe how someone moves or handles a difficult situation with calm and style.

adv. in a smooth, relaxed, and attractive manner; showing elegance in movement or poise in social conduct.


SIMPLE

She walked gracefully across the stage.

CONTEXTUAL

The retired athlete handled the loss gracefully, shaking hands with his opponent and praising the younger man's performance.

COMPLEX

The willow trees swayed gracefully in the evening breeze, their long branches dipping toward the water with a fluid motion that seemed almost choreographed.

Synonyms
Antonyms
Origin

From graceful + -ly.

Usage

Typically follows the verb it modifies or the direct object.

Idioms1 entry

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