ENGLISH
REFERENCE

openly

adv. manner
B2 Upper Intermediate Oxford US //ˈoʊpənɫi// UK //ˈəʊpənli// open·ly General-service

adv. in a way that is honest and does not hide anything. You use this when someone speaks or acts without trying to keep secrets.

adv. in an honest and direct manner, without concealment or deception. Often used to describe public declarations or the expression of emotions.


SIMPLE

She spoke openly about her past mistakes.

CONTEXTUAL

The two companies are now openly competing for the same group of customers.

COMPLEX

While many suspected a change in policy, the administration only recently began to openly acknowledge the necessity of structural reform.

Origin

From open + -ly.

Usage

Typically placed after the verb it modifies or at the end of the clause.

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