softly
- 01 A2 Elementary
in a gentle way, using very little force or pressure.
in a gentle or delicate manner, characterized by low physical impact or pressure.
Simple“She touched the baby's cheek softly while he was sleeping.”
In context“The snow fell softly against the windowpane, covering the garden in a thin, delicate layer of white by morning.”
UsageTypically follows the verb it modifies.
SynonymsAntonyms - 02 A2 Elementary
in a quiet way that is difficult to hear.
at a low volume; nearly inaudibly.
Simple“They spoke softly in the library so they wouldn't disturb others.”
In context“The pianist played the final chords so softly that the audience held their breath to catch the fading notes.”
UsageCommonly used with verbs of communication like 'speak', 'whisper', or 'sing'.
- 03 B2 Upper Intermediate
in a way that is not bright or sharp to the eyes.
with low intensity of light or color; in a subdued or blurred manner.
Simple“The morning sun shone softly through the thick curtains.”
In context“The distant hills were softly outlined against the grey sky, their peaks blurred by the rising mist.”
Usage softly spoken
From Middle English softely, softeliche, equivalent to soft + -ly.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.