Word
tightly
Phoneticstight·ly, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈtaɪtɫi/
UK/tˈaɪtli/
Adverb of manner
Definitions
01firmly or closely
B1 · Intermediate
adv. in a way that is very firm or close, so that something is hard to move or open.
adv. in a manner that involves high tension, physical constriction, or a lack of slack.
“Make sure you close the lid tightly so the paint doesn't dry out.”
“The climbers ensured their harnesses were fastened tightly before attempting the final ascent of the vertical rock face.”
Usage
Usually follows the verb or the direct object.
Antonyms
02with controlled emotion
C1 · Advanced Formal
adv. speaking in a short, sharp way because you are trying to hide your anger.
adv. characterised by emotional restraint or suppressed tension, typically reflected in speech or facial expression.
“"I am perfectly fine," she said tightly, though her hands were shaking.”
“The diplomat smiled tightly at the cameras, refusing to acknowledge the breakdown of the negotiations that had occurred behind closed doors.”
Synonyms
Collocations
Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “tightly” in context.
Verb
01. tightly control
“The government continues to tightly control the flow of information to the public.”
adv + verb
02. tightly link
“The two issues are tightly linked, so we must solve them both at the same time.”
adv + verb
03. tightly controlled
04. tightly packed
Etymology
From tight + -ly.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
VERB
ADJECTIVE
ADVERB
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B1 PreliminaryIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.4.0–5.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 3.0–3.544–71TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.550–784
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B1 · Intermediate
- Updated
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