nearly — almost but not completely or exactly
Part of speech: ADVERB
Definition: almost but not completely or exactly
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈnɪrli/
Example Sentences
- I nearly cried when I saw the pizza delivery guy slip on a banana peel.
- She nearly fainted when she received her electricity bill.
- The project is nearly complete.
nearly
ADVERB[/ˈnɪrli/]
almost but not completely or exactly
A runner nearly reaches the finish line but stumbles just before crossing.
What was nearly lost, now appears clearly in yearly memories.
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From Old English 'neah' meaning 'near' combined with the suffix '-ly' (which transforms adjectives into adverbs). The word evolved through Middle English to mean 'in a manner that is near or close to.'
Breakdown
near (close in distance or time) + -ly (adverb suffix meaning 'in the manner of') = nearly (almost; in a near manner)
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“I nearly cried when I saw the pizza delivery guy slip on a banana peel.”
“She nearly fainted when she received her electricity bill.”
“The project is nearly complete.”
“He nearly broke his phone trying to take a selfie with a squirrel.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
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