# verbally

/vɝˈbæɫi/ (US) · /vˈɜːbəli/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adverb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/verbally
Updated: 2026-05-06

## Definition

using spoken words rather than writing or physical actions. You use this when you want to say that something was said out loud.

For teachers: by means of spoken words as opposed to written communication or physical force.

## Examples

- She agreed to the plan verbally.
- The manager gave the instructions verbally because there was no time to print a formal memo.
- While the contract was never signed, the parties had reached a consensus verbally, which created a complicated legal situation when the project was eventually cancelled.

## Pitfalls

- Not "He attacked me verbally with a letter" but "He attacked me in writing with a letter" — Verbally refers specifically to spoken communication; it cannot be used for written words.

## Usage notes

- Typically follows the verb it modifies or appears at the end of the clause.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.