ENGLISH
REFERENCE

safely

adv. manner
A2 Elementary US //ˈseɪfɫi// UK //sˈeɪfli// safe·ly

adv. in a way that is not dangerous and does not cause harm. You use this when you want to say that someone or something is protected from trouble.

adv. in a manner that avoids danger, injury, or risk. Often used to describe the successful completion of a task without negative consequences.


SIMPLE

Please make sure you arrive home safely.

CONTEXTUAL

The pilot landed the plane safely despite the heavy rain and strong winds at the airport.

COMPLEX

After the data was safely backed up on multiple external servers, the IT team began the risky process of upgrading the primary database software.

Origin

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

Usage

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

Pitfall

He drove safe during the stormHe drove safely during the stormLearners often use the adjective 'safe' instead of the adverb 'safely' to describe an action.

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