gently
word · lemma: gentle
/ˈdʒɛntɫi/
JENT-lee
/dʒˈɛntli/
JENT-lee
Definition
In a soft, calm, or careful way, without force or sudden movement. It can describe how someone touches, speaks, moves, or handles something.
Usage & Nuances
Often used with verbs like 'touch', 'hold', 'move', 'speak', and 'close'. 'Gently' suggests care and softness; 'slowly' only describes speed, so they are not always the same.
Spanish: suavemente - con cuidadoPortuguese (BR): suavemente - com cuidadoPortuguese (PT): suavemente - com cuidadoChinese (Simplified): 轻轻地 - 温柔地Chinese (Traditional): 輕輕地 - 溫柔地Hindi: धीरे से - नरमी सेArabic: برفق - بلطفBengali: ধীরে ধীরে - আস্তে আস্তে - কোমলভাবেRussian: нежно - мягко - аккуратноJapanese: やさしく - そっとVietnamese: nhẹ nhàngKorean: 부드럽게 - 조심스럽게Turkish: nazikçe - hafifçeUrdu: نرمی سے - آہستگی سےIndonesian: dengan lembut - perlahan-lahan
Example Sentences
Please open the box gently.
basic
She gently held the baby.
basic
The wind moved the leaves gently.
basic
She gently pushed the door closed so no one would hear.
natural
You don't have to say it gently—just be honest with me.
natural
He gently reminded me that the deadline was today.
natural