# lightly

/ˈɫaɪtɫi/ (US) · /lˈaɪtli/ (UK) · CEFR B1 · Adverb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/lightly
Updated: 2026-05-02

## Definition

to do something with very little force or pressure. You can also use it to mean you are not being serious about a choice or a problem.

For teachers: with little weight, force, or intensity; alternatively, in a manner that lacks serious intent or sufficient consideration.

## Examples

- She tapped him lightly on the shoulder to get his attention.
- You should not take this medical advice lightly; it is important to follow the doctor's instructions exactly.
- The snow fell so lightly that it vanished the moment it touched the pavement, leaving no trace of the winter storm that had been predicted.

## Pitfalls

- Not "He touched light the glass" but "He touched the glass lightly" — Learners often use the adjective 'light' instead of the adverb 'lightly' to describe how an action is performed.

## Usage notes

- Typically follows the verb it modifies when describing physical force, but often precedes the verb when used figuratively to mean 'without serious thought'.

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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.