ENGLISH
REFERENCE

nicely

adv. manner
A2 Elementary US //ˈnaɪsɫi// UK //nˈaɪsli// nice·ly Archaic

adv. in a way that is pleasant, kind, or attractive. You use this to describe doing something well or being polite.

adv. in a satisfactory, pleasant, or socially acceptable manner. Often functions as a general-purpose intensifier for positive outcomes.


SIMPLE

The two children are playing nicely together.

CONTEXTUAL

The new curtains match the sofa quite nicely and make the room feel much warmer.

COMPLEX

The project is coming along nicely, with all major milestones met ahead of the original schedule despite the recent staffing changes.

Origin

From Middle English nycely; equivalent to nice + -ly.

Usage

Typically follows the verb it modifies or the direct object.

Pitfall

He speaks very niceHe speaks very nicelyLearners often use the adjective 'nice' instead of the adverb 'nicely' to describe an action.

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