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

The school was clearly labeled as such in online maps and has an easily accessible website full of information about students, teachers and administrators. —Arkansas Online, 13 Mar. 2026

But the Dolphins, clearly, know much more than what showed up on film from those three games. —CBS News, 12 Mar. 2026

The Creature clearly took that to heart. —Randall Colburn, Entertainment Weekly, 12 Mar. 2026

For a young actress weathering a public firestorm, the guidance clearly made an impression. —Hanna Wickes, Charlotte Observer, 12 Mar. 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