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

Collaborate thoughtfully, and document next steps clearly. —Tarot.com, Sun Sentinel, 3 Apr. 2026

Bauers clearly hit the base square in the middle, and the call was quickly overturned, leading to laughs from both managers, the Rays’ Kevin Cash and the Brewers’ Pat Murphy. —Paul Sullivan, Chicago Tribune, 2 Apr. 2026

And clearly, there are still stadiums in this country that will book him, as well as fans to fill their seats. —Ethan Millman, HollywoodReporter, 2 Apr. 2026

Oftentimes, the backing track very clearly overpowered his vocals. —Steven J. Horowitz, Variety, 2 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