# hotly

/ˈhɑtɫi/ (US) · /hˈɒtli/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adverb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/hotly
Updated: 2026-05-19

## Definition

in a way that shows a lot of strong emotion or anger. You use this to describe a debate or a race that is very competitive and exciting.

For teachers: in a manner involving intense emotion, especially anger or excitement. Often used to describe the pace or intensity of a debate, a race, or a competition.

## Examples

- The two teams debated the issue hotly.
- The candidates debated the new tax policy hotly during the final election night.
- The championship race was hotly contested throughout the final lap, with both drivers pushing their vehicles to the absolute limit of their mechanical capabilities.

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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.