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 lightly Add 1/2 tablespoon butter to pot, season contents with salt and pepper and simmer lightly. Philip Potempa, Chicago Tribune, 11 July 2025 Questions and answers have been lightly edited and condensed. Deborah Treisman, New Yorker, 11 July 2025 Bake 12 to 14 minutes or until edges are lightly browned and centers appear set. Katlyn Moncada, Better Homes & Gardens, 11 July 2025 But there’s a big difference between lightly selling and aggressively selling, and the lame-duck owners and in-flux front office may not be ready to dive fully into the latter approach quite yet. Aaron Gleeman, New York Times, 10 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for lightly
Recent Examples of Synonyms for lightly
Adverb
  • But fueled up and carrying cruise missiles, the aircraft were easily set ablaze and destroyed.
    David Hambling, Forbes.com, 1 July 2025
  • Customers also rave at how easily the powder dissolves in a morning coffee, oatmeal, and more without any chalkiness or clumpy texture.
    Brianna Peters, Vogue, 1 July 2025
Adverb
  • The super-cushy insoles will make running over rocks and rough terrain as easy as stepping on air, while the rubber outsoles offer the necessary grip to feel safe and secure without slipping.
    Merrell Readman, Travel + Leisure, 5 July 2025
  • Summer fashion may be inherently more fun to shop for — straw bags for beach days, linen dresses for effortless, breezy style, travel accessories for vacation — but fun doesn’t always mean easy.
    Footwear News, Footwear News, 3 July 2025
Adverb
  • Any information supporting the claim, its scope, and, if applicable, verification, should be easily, freely and publicly available.
    Alexandra Harrell, Sourcing Journal, 2 July 2025
  • Students will not be allowed to freely use their cellphones within Jefferson County Public Schools next year after Kentucky legislators successfully passed a bill requiring districts statewide to implement bans.
    Krista Johnson, The Courier-Journal, 2 July 2025
Adverb
  • When estrogen levels are stable, these neurotransmitter systems work more efficiently—which helps support mood stability and emotional resilience.
    Lauryn Higgins, Flow Space, 11 July 2025
  • The Missouri Department of Social Services has struggled to efficiently handle enrollment requirements for food stamps and other social programs.
    Suzanne King, Kansas City Star, 11 July 2025
Adverb
  • Without a readily available labor force of skilled sewists, individuals must be recruited into the field and then trained.
    Sarah Jones, Sourcing Journal, 30 June 2025
  • In states that have money for fire suppression readily available, contractors may be more confident that they’ll be paid on time.
    Sarah Cutler June 28, Idaho Statesman, 28 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Lightly.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/lightly. Accessed 15 Jul. 2025.

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