clearly

adverb

clear·​ly ˈklir-lē How to pronounce clearly (audio)
Synonyms of clearlynext
1
: in a clear manner
speaking clearly
2
: it is clear
clearly, a new approach is needed

Synonyms of clearly

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Examples of clearly in a Sentence

You should try to speak more clearly. The mountain was clearly visible in the distance. The problem is very clearly getting worse. “A new approach is needed.” “Clearly.” “The current method isn't working.” “Clearly not.”
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The planet showed a sharp gibbous disk phase, clearly visible even at moderate power. — Damian Peach, Space.com, 4 Aug. 2026 The search committee clearly stated that all that was needed was strong executive leadership. — Patrick Riccards, Forbes.com, 4 Aug. 2026 Blasi is clearly in form and showed it Tuesday, begging the question whether this may force her team to let her race for a stage. — Jessica Hopkins, New York Times, 4 Aug. 2026 Now, nine years on, the itchiness her late mother endured had clearly revived in her own body. — Cynthia Zarin, Harpers Magazine, 4 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for clearly

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of clearly was in the 14th century

Rhymes for clearly

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Browse Nearby Words

clear length
clearly
clearness
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Cite this Entry

“Clearly.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/clearly. Accessed 5 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

clearly

adverb
clear·​ly ˈkli(ə)r-lē How to pronounce clearly (audio)
1
: in a clear manner
was clearly visible
2
: without doubt or question
clearly something had to be done

More from Merriam-Webster on clearly

Nglish: Translation of clearly for Spanish Speakers

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