What does "safely" mean?

1. (without danger) in a way that is not dangerous and does not cause injury or damage. 2. (with certainty) used to say that you are sure about something or that it is likely to be true.

How do you use "safely"?

Usually follows the verb or the direct object of the sentence. Often used with verbs of saying or thinking, like 'say', 'assume', or 'predict'.

safely

adv.

US //ˈseɪfɫi// UK //sˈeɪfli// safe·ly

1 without danger (adv.)
A2 Elementary

in a way that is not dangerous and does not cause injury or damage.

in a manner that avoids risk, injury, or damage; performing an action without exposure to danger.

Example

The children crossed the busy street safely by using the pedestrian bridge.

Example

The pilot managed to land the aircraft safely despite the severe crosswinds and limited visibility at the mountain airport.

Usage

Usually follows the verb or the direct object of the sentence.
- securely
- cautiously
- harmlessly
- dangerously
- risky
2 with certainty (adv.)
B2 Upper Intermediate

used to say that you are sure about something or that it is likely to be true.

used to indicate that a statement or prediction can be made with confidence or without risk of being wrong.

Example

We can safely say that the new project will be a success.

Example

Given the current market trends, one can safely assume that interest rates will remain stable for the remainder of the fiscal year.

Usage

Often used with verbs of saying or thinking, like 'say', 'assume', or 'predict'.

Teacher's tip

This is a figurative use where 'safely' means 'without risk of being proven wrong'.
- confidently
- surely

Origin

From Middle English savely; equivalent to safe + -ly.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

Last updated June 19, 2026