# humbly

/ˈhəmbɫi/ (US) · /hˈʌmbli/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adverb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/humbly
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

to do something in a way that shows you do not think you are more important than others. You use this when you want to show respect or when you are not trying to be proud.

For teachers: in a manner characterized by a modest or low estimate of one's own importance. Often used to signal deference or respect in formal communication.

## Examples

- He humbly accepted the award.
- She humbly apologized for the mistake, acknowledging that she still had much to learn from her colleagues.
- The scientist humbly attributed the breakthrough to the decades of foundational research conducted by her predecessors rather than to her own individual genius.

## Usage notes

- Typically follows the verb it modifies or sits at the beginning of a sentence for emphasis.

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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.