Word Adverb
solemnly
adv.
manner
B2 Upper Intermediate US /ˈsɔɫəmɫi/ UK /sˈɒləmli/ solemn·ly
Definition
adv.in a very serious and formal way. You use this when someone is not joking and wants to show they are being sincere.
adv.in a formal and dignified manner; with deep sincerity or gravity.
Examples
“He promised solemnly to tell the truth.”
“The witnesses stood and solemnly swore to uphold the law during the ceremony.”
“The judge looked at the defendant and spoke solemnly about the consequences of his actions before delivering the final sentence.”
Usage
Manner adverb — typically follows the verb it modifies or sits at the end of the clause.
Etymology
From solemn + -ly.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Occasional
Updated