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

There are clearly opportunities to further develop this unique site as a transboundary reserve with North Korea. —Saleem H. Ali, Forbes.com, 9 July 2025

Michigan clearly saw Meadows as one of the top edge prospects in the class and prioritized him accordingly. —Austin Meek, New York Times, 9 July 2025

The history of the prize shows clearly it's given to people from all layers of society from all over the world. —Kathryn Palmer, USA Today, 9 July 2025

Footage from a sheriff’s helicopter showed Rendon raising his arm, but the grainy video does not show clearly whether the gun went toward deputies or his own head. —Alex Riggins, San Diego Union-Tribune, 9 July 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