ENGLISH
REFERENCE

tightly

adv. manner
B1 Intermediate US //ˈtaɪtɫi// UK //tˈaɪtli// tight·ly

adv. in a way that is very firm or close. You use this when something is held or closed so it cannot move or open easily.

adv. in a firm, secure, or compact manner that leaves little or no space. Often describes physical attachment or the restriction of movement.


SIMPLE

She held her daughter's hand tightly in the crowd.

CONTEXTUAL

Make sure the lid is screwed on tightly so the liquid doesn't leak during the flight.

COMPLEX

The narrative is tightly constructed, ensuring that every minor character eventually plays a pivotal role in the resolution of the central conflict.

Origin

From tight + -ly.

Usage

Typically follows the verb it modifies or the direct object.

Pitfall

He held the rope tightyHe held the rope tightlyLearners sometimes omit the 'l' in the suffix '-ly' when forming the adverb from the adjective 'tight'.

© 2026 English Reference