narrowly

adverb

nar·​row·​ly
Synonyms of narrowlynext
: in a narrow manner: such as
a
: with little width or extent
a narrowly constructed causeway
b
: by a slight margin : barely
narrowly escaped
the shot narrowly missed the target
c(1)
: with strict adherence to details, rules, or norms
a narrowly interpreted constitution
(2)
: with minute scrutiny : carefully
search an area narrowly
d
: with utmost vigor : intensely
a narrowly pursued course of action
e
: in a particularly petty, illiberal, or narrow-minded way
not narrowly moralF. R. Leavis

Word History

Etymology

Middle English narowly, from Old English nearulīce, from nearu narrow + -līce -ly

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Cite this Entry

“Narrowly.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/narrowly. Accessed 15 Dec. 2025.

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