ENGLISH
REFERENCE

lowly

adj.
C1 Advanced US //ˈɫoʊɫi// UK //lˈəʊli// low·ly

adj. having a low rank or a very simple position in society. It describes someone or something that is not powerful, rich, or important.

adj. occupying a humble or low position in a hierarchy; lacking in status, importance, or rank.


SIMPLE

He started his career as a lowly clerk in the mailroom.

CONTEXTUAL

Even the most lowly tasks in the kitchen are essential for the restaurant to run smoothly.

COMPLEX

The novel explores the life of a lowly stable hand who eventually rises to become a respected advisor to the king through sheer perseverance.

Synonyms
Origin

From low + -ly; compare Middle English lowly.

Usage

Typically used attributively before a noun to emphasize a lack of status.

Pitfall

He spoke lowly to the groupHe spoke quietly to the groupLowly is an adjective meaning humble; it is not the adverbial form of 'low' used for volume or physical height.

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