English Reference

Word

manly

Phoneticsman·ly, stress on the first syllable

US/ˈmænɫi/

UK/mˈænli/

Definitions

01masculine qualities

B2 · Upper Intermediate

adj. having qualities that people traditionally think a man should have, like being strong or brave.

adj. possessing qualities traditionally associated with men, such as physical strength, courage, or a deep voice.

“He spoke in a deep, manly voice that filled the room.”

“The advertisement relied on outdated stereotypes, depicting the protagonist performing manly tasks like chopping wood and wrestling bears.”

Usage

Often used to describe physical features or traditional virtues like bravery.

Teaching tip

This word is often associated with traditional or old-fashioned ideas of gender roles; use it carefully in modern social contexts.

Synonyms

masculinevirilemanful

Antonyms

unmanlyeffeminate

02in a masculine way

C1 · Advanced Literary

adv. acting in a way that is brave or strong, like a traditional man.

adv. behaving in a manner traditionally considered appropriate for a man, especially with courage or resolve.

“He bore the pain manly and did not cry out.”

“In the classic novel, the hero faces his execution manly, refusing to show any sign of fear to his captors.”

Usage

As an adverb, it is much less common than the adjective and is mostly found in older literature.

Synonyms

bravelyresolutely

Word family

NOUN

ADJECTIVE

manly(B2)

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
Frequency
Frequent
Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Updated

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English Reference