DIRECTLY Synonyms: 141 Similar and Opposite Words

directly

adverb

də-ˈrek(t)-lē

Definition of directly next

as in straight

in a direct line or course we went directly to the site without stopping to pick up extra supplies

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in openly

in an honest and direct manner the instructor deals with her art students very directly, always telling them the plain truth

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in accurately

in the same words quoted directly from the encyclopedia

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in immediately

without delay in case of a medical emergency, do not try to contact your doctor but instead go directly to the hospital

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in shortly

at or within a short time dinner should be ready directly

Synonyms & Similar Words

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of directly Start by building strong technical foundations in tools like Excel, SQL, or Python, then layer in business understanding so your work connects directly to outcomes. —

Sho Dewan, Forbes.com, 22 May 2026 Unlike earlier systems, HELIOS is integrated directly into the ship’s Aegis combat architecture and is designed not only to dazzle sensors but also to physically engage targets such as drones and small boats. —

Kaif Shaikh, Interesting Engineering, 22 May 2026 Some of the glances were written directly into the script, but others came naturally. —

Seija Rankin, HollywoodReporter, 22 May 2026 Bankside Films is handling international sales excluding Latin America, which is managed directly by The Mediapro Studio, while WME Independent is representing North America. —

Zac Ntim, Deadline, 22 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for directly

Recent Examples of Synonyms for directly

Adverb

But Jeffries, an outstanding student who typically went straight home from baseball practice to study, remained more of a spectator than a participant in the borough’s burgeoning hip-hop scene.

— Jason Zengerle, New Yorker, 18 May 2026
While tens of millions of Americans are laden with tuition loans – many well into their 30s, leaving renting their only option – their Chinese counterparts start planning the purchase of their first homes straight out of university.

— Chris Lau, CNN Money, 18 May 2026