English Reference
Adverb

visibly

adv. manner
B2 Upper Intermediate US /ˈvɪzəbɫi/ UK /vˈɪzəbli/ vis·i·bly

adv.in a way that is easy to see or notice. You use this when someone's feelings or a change in a situation are very clear to anyone looking.

adv.in a manner that is perceptible to the eye or obvious to an observer. Often modifies adjectives related to emotional states or physical changes.


SIMPLE

She was visibly upset after hearing the bad news.

CONTEXTUAL

The old bridge was visibly shaking as the heavy truck drove slowly across it.

COMPLEX

The CEO appeared visibly shaken by the hostile questions from the board, despite his earlier attempts to project an image of calm confidence.

Usage

Typically placed before the adjective or verb it modifies to emphasize that a state is clearly observable.

Pitfall
He was visible upset.He was visibly upset.

Learners often use the adjective 'visible' when an adverb is required to modify another adjective.

She has two young children, and worries about spending time in areas that are visibly dirty and strewn with litter.

The Guardian· 19 Aug 2026

While some look calm, others are visibly nervous.

The Guardian· 17 Aug 2026

From visible + -ly.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated