What does "strongly" mean?

1. (with physical power) in a way that uses a lot of physical power or force. 2. (very much or firmly) very much, especially when talking about an opinion, a feeling, or a smell.

How do you use "strongly"?

Typically follows the verb it modifies. Often placed before the verb it intensifies, such as 'strongly believe' or 'strongly recommend'.

strongly

adv.

US //ˈstɹɔŋɫi// UK //stɹˈɒŋli// strong·ly

1 with physical power (adv.)
B1 Intermediate

in a way that uses a lot of physical power or force.

with great physical force or muscular power.

Example

The wind blew strongly against the windows all night.

Example

The athlete pushed off strongly from the starting blocks, gaining an immediate advantage over the rest of the field.

Usage

Typically follows the verb it modifies.
- weakly
- faintly
2 very much or firmly (adv.)
B1 Intermediate

very much, especially when talking about an opinion, a feeling, or a smell.

to a great degree; used to intensify verbs of feeling, belief, or sensory perception.

Example

I strongly suggest that you check the map before we leave.

Example

The board members strongly disagreed with the proposed budget cuts, arguing that they would compromise the safety of the facility.

Usage

Often placed before the verb it intensifies, such as 'strongly believe' or 'strongly recommend'.
- slightly
- mildly

Origin

From Middle English strongliche, strangliche, from Old English stranglīċe (“strongly”), equivalent to strong + -ly.