-ly
suffix
UK/li/ or /liː/US/li/ or /liː/
Used primarily to form adverbs from adjectives, indicating ‘in the manner of’ (e.g., ‘quickly’ means ‘in a quick manner’). It can also form adjectives from nouns, conveying ‘characteristic of’ or ‘like’ (e.g., ‘manly,’ ‘motherly’). Derived from Old English ‘-līc’ and ‘-līce.’
Example Sentences
He walked slowly, taking time to observe the scenery around him.
They handled the fragile antiques carefully, ensuring nothing broke during transport.
In writing, turning an adjective like ‘quick’ into ‘quickly’ helps describe how an action is performed.
The new policy was applied universally, affecting all departments and employees equally.
A motherly approach often involves compassion, nurturing, and gentle guidance.
A friendly conversation can ease tensions, fostering goodwill between individuals or groups.
Describing someone as ‘kingly’ may imply traits of royalty, authority, or grandeur, even if they aren’t actually a monarch.
Words ending in ‘-ly’ are common in English, serving two primary roles: forming adverbs (from adjectives) and forming adjectives (from nouns) to convey ‘in the manner of’ or ‘having the qualities of’ the root term.
Thesaurus
Synonyms
How to Use
Suffix forming adverbs or adjectives to express manner or degree.The suffix “-ly” is primarily used in English to transform adjectives into adverbs or to form adjectives themselves. When added to an adjective, it typically creates an adverb that describes how an action is performed. For example, adding “-ly” to the adjective “quick” forms the adverb “quickly,” which describes the manner of an action. Similarly, “happy” becomes “happily,” indicating the manner in which something is done. In some cases, “-ly” is used to create adjectives that describe characteristics related to the original adjective, such as “friendly” from “friend.” It’s important to note that while many adverbs are formed by adding “-ly” to adjectives, not all adverbs follow this pattern, and some words ending in “-ly” are adjectives (e.g., “friendly,” “lonely”). When using “-ly” in writing, ensure that the resulting adverb correctly conveys the intended manner or degree of the action. Additionally, be mindful of overusing “-ly” adverbs, as excessive reliance on them can make writing seem repetitive or less dynamic. Instead, strive for a balance by varying sentence structure and using strong verbs where appropriate.
Alternatives
Alternatives to using “-ly” suffix adverbs include using prepositional phrases or different adjective forms. For example, instead of saying “quickly,” you could use “in a quick manner” or simply “fast.” Instead of “happily,” phrases like “with happiness” or “in a happy way” can be used. Additionally, choosing more descriptive verbs can often eliminate the need for an adverb altogether; for instance, instead of saying “walked slowly,” you might say “ambled” or “strolled.” This approach can make sentences more concise and vivid. When forming adjectives, instead of relying on “-ly” endings, consider using alternative suffixes such as “-ful” (e.g., “hopeful”) or “-ous” (e.g., “joyous”) to convey similar meanings with different nuances.
Writing
When writing, the “-ly” suffix is a powerful tool for adding detail and nuance to your descriptions by forming adverbs that modify verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs. However, it’s important to use them judiciously to maintain a strong and clear writing style. Overuse of “-ly” adverbs can lead to weak or passive sentences, so aim to incorporate them where they enhance the meaning without overwhelming the text. For instance, instead of saying “she ran quickly,” you might choose a more dynamic verb like “she sprinted.” Additionally, using “-ly” adjectives can enrich your descriptions, allowing for more precise characterizations, such as “a friendly smile” instead of just “a smile.” Strive for variety in your sentence structures and word choices to keep your writing engaging and vibrant. Balance the use of “-ly” forms with other descriptive techniques to create a more compelling and polished narrative.
Casual Conversation
In everyday conversation, using words with the “-ly” suffix can help you describe actions and qualities more vividly. For example, saying “She sings beautifully” gives a clearer picture than just “She sings well.” Similarly, phrases like “He quickly agreed” or “They happily accepted” add color to your speech. However, in casual settings, it’s often more natural to use simpler terms or rely on context, such as saying “She’s a friendly person” instead of “She is friend-ly.” Additionally, overusing “-ly” words in casual talk can make your speech sound overly formal or rehearsed, so it’s best to use them when they genuinely enhance your description. Aim for a natural flow by mixing in “-ly” adverbs and adjectives with more straightforward language to keep conversations relaxed and engaging.
Etymology
The suffix “-ly” has its origins in Old English, where it was used to form adverbs and adjectives. Derived from the Old English suffix “-lic,” meaning “like” or “similar to,” it evolved over time to become “-ly” in Modern English. This transformation allowed for the creation of adverbs from adjectives, enabling speakers and writers to modify actions with more precision. For example, “quick” became “quickly,” expanding the expressive capacity of the language. The versatility of “-ly” has made it one of the most productive suffixes in English, facilitating the formation of a vast array of adverbs and adjectives that enrich both spoken and written communication. Its continued use underscores the importance of nuanced expression in conveying manner, degree, and quality in various contexts.
