lightly
word
/ˈɫaɪtɫi/
LYT-lee
/lˈaɪtli/
LYT-lee
Definition
In a gentle, mild, or small amount; not heavily or strongly. Often used to describe touch, movement, or degree.
Usage & Nuances
Often used with verbs like 'touch', 'press', 'laugh', and 'cook'. Implies gentleness, subtlety, or a small amount. Not interchangeable with 'a little' (which refers only to quantity), as 'lightly' also conveys manner.
Spanish: ligeramente - suavementePortuguese (BR): levemente - suavementePortuguese (PT): levemente - suavementeChinese (Simplified): 轻轻地 - 稍微Chinese (Traditional): 輕輕地 - 稍微Hindi: हल्के से - थोड़ाArabic: بِخِفَّة - بِلطَفBengali: হালকাভাবে - আলতোভাবেRussian: легко - слегкаJapanese: 軽くVietnamese: nhẹ nhàngKorean: 가볍게Turkish: hafifçe - nazikçeUrdu: ہلکے سےIndonesian: dengan ringan - secara lembut
Example Sentences
Please press the button lightly.
basic
She knocked lightly on the door.
basic
Sprinkle salt lightly over the salad.
basic
He spoke lightly about a serious topic to make us feel more comfortable.
natural
If you lightly fry the vegetables, they stay crunchy.
natural
She laughed lightly and changed the subject.
natural