English Reference
adjective · noun · adverb

lovely

adj. · n. · adv.
US /ˈɫəvɫi/ UK /lˈʌvli/ love·ly UK spelling lovelies

  1. 01 A2 Elementary

    adj.very beautiful or attractive to look at.

    adj.possessing qualities that inspire delight through beauty, harmony, or grace.

    Simple

    We had a lovely view of the mountains from our hotel window.

    In context

    The garden was filled with lovely roses that filled the evening air with a delicate, sweet perfume.

  2. 02 A2 Elementary British English

    adj.very pleasant, enjoyable, or nice.

    adj.highly enjoyable or pleasant in a general sense; often used as a generic positive intensifier in British English.

    Simple

    It was a lovely day for a walk in the park.

    In context

    We spent a lovely afternoon browsing the local markets and sampling traditional pastries with our hosts.

  3. 03 B1 Intermediate

    adj.having a kind and friendly personality.

    adj.demonstrating a kind, amiable, or morally admirable character.

    Simple

    Our new neighbours are a lovely couple who helped us move in.

    In context

    She is a lovely person who always goes out of her way to support colleagues during difficult projects.

  4. 04 C1 Advanced Informal

    n.a person who is very attractive or beautiful.

    n.an attractive or beautiful person, often used in a professional or informal context.

    Simple

    The magazine featured several young lovelies on its summer cover.

    In context

    The gala was attended by the city's young lovelies, all dressed in the latest high-fashion designs.

  5. 05 B2 Upper Intermediate British EnglishInformal

    n.a friendly name you call someone you like.

    n.a term of endearment or fond address used in informal social interactions.

    Simple

    Thanks for the help, lovely.

    In context

    The shopkeeper smiled and said, 'That will be five pounds, lovely,' as she handed over the groceries.

  6. 06 C2 Proficiency InformalDialect

    adv.in a very nice or beautiful way.

    adv.in a lovely or beautiful manner; functions as a synonym for 'beautifully' in informal registers.

    Simple

    The children were all dressed up lovely for the wedding.

    In context

    The old piano still plays lovely despite having been neglected in the attic for several decades.

This entry
Level A2 · Elementary
Frequency Common
Updated