# mildly

/ˈmaɪɫdɫi/ (US) · /mˈaɪldli/ (UK)

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

## Senses

### 1. slightly

adverb · CEFR B2

to a small degree; a little bit.

For teachers: to a moderate or slight degree; often used to soften a description or criticism.

- I was mildly surprised when I heard the news, but I didn't shout.
- The critic described the performance as mildly entertaining, suggesting it lacked the depth required for a truly memorable theatrical experience.

### 2. in a gentle way

adverb · CEFR B2

in a way that is not harsh, angry, or loud.

For teachers: in a gentle, kind, or temperate manner; without harshness or severity.

- She spoke mildly to the child so he wouldn't feel scared.
- Despite the provocative nature of the questions, the professor responded mildly, maintaining a professional and calm atmosphere in the lecture hall.

### 3. to put it mildly

adverb · CEFR C1 · Informal

a phrase used to say that something is actually much worse or more extreme than you are saying.

For teachers: a fixed idiomatic expression used as an understatement to imply that the reality is far more significant or severe.

- The food was terrible; to put it mildly, I will not be going back.
- Calling the project a failure is putting it mildly, as the company lost millions and its entire reputation was tarnished by the scandal.

## Examples

- The soup is only mildly spicy.
- She was mildly surprised to see her old friend standing at the door after so many years.
- The critic described the performance as mildly entertaining, suggesting that while it lacked depth, it provided sufficient amusement for a casual audience.

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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.