clearly

adverb

clear·​ly ˈklir-lē 

1

: in a clear manner

speaking clearly

2

: it is clear

clearly, a new approach is needed

Synonyms

• certainly
• definitely
• surely
• sure
• probably
• really

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

To some, Aschenbrenner is a rare genius who saw the moment—the coming of humanlike artificial general intelligence, China’s accelerating AI race, and the vast fortunes awaiting those who move first—more clearly than anyone else. —Sharon Goldman, Fortune, 8 Oct. 2025

But there’s also the rare group of third-year players – those who are clearly NFL stars from the start – that franchises would love to keep aboard and continue to build around. —Scott Thompson, FOXNews.com, 8 Oct. 2025

Tuttle drew on his own childhood memories to create a story that clearly represents the kind of dangerous art Moore wants to keep making. —Brent Lang, Variety, 8 Oct. 2025

Third line showed signs of life The Rangers clearly have work to do, but there were a few silver linings. —Vincent Z. Mercogliano, New York Times, 8 Oct. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for clearly

• dearly
• merely
• nearly
• queerly
• yearly
• austerely
• severely
• sincerely
• cavalierly

Kids Definition

clearly

adverb

clear·​ly ˈkli(ə)r-lē 

1

: in a clear manner

was clearly visible

2

: without doubt or question

clearly something had to be done