clearly

adverb

clear·​ly ˈklir-lē 

1

: in a clear manner

speaking clearly

2

: it is clear

clearly, a new approach is needed

Synonyms of clearly

• 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

Slow it down just enough to map the next step clearly. —Tarot.com, New York Daily News, 22 Apr. 2026

This is a show made by people who clearly love musicals, for audiences who do too. —Dave Quinn, PEOPLE, 21 Apr. 2026

Both the city’s Law Department and the law firms making substantial sums from these cases need to fix what clearly is a major deficit of city controls and due care and attention on the billable hours being submitted for this work. —The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 21 Apr. 2026

Jaafar Jackson does bear an uncanny resemblance to his late uncle, and clearly knows how to replicate his signature moves, his physical fluidity, his beaming smile reserved for fans, animals, and hospital residents. —David Fear, Rolling Stone, 21 Apr. 2026

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