softly
word
/ˈsɔfɫi/
SAWF-lee
/sˈɒftli/
SOF-tlee
Definition
In a gentle, quiet, or low way, often referring to sound or touch.
Usage & Nuances
Used to describe gentle speech, music, touch, or actions. Common collocations: 'speak softly', 'close the door softly'. Less formal than 'gently'. Not related to 'soft' as in texture, but rather manner.
Spanish: suavemente - en voz bajaPortuguese (BR): suavemente - baixinhoPortuguese (PT): suavemente - baixinhoChinese (Simplified): 轻声地 - 柔和地Chinese (Traditional): 輕聲地 - 柔和地Hindi: धीरे से - नरमी सेArabic: برفق - بهدوءBengali: নরমভাবে - আস্তেRussian: тихо - мягкоJapanese: やさしく - そっとVietnamese: nhẹ nhàngKorean: 부드럽게 - 조용히Turkish: yumuşakça - hafifçeUrdu: نرمی سے - آہستہ سےIndonesian: dengan lembut
Example Sentences
She spoke softly so she wouldn’t wake the baby.
basic
Close the door softly behind you.
basic
He whispered softly into her ear.
natural
The music is playing softly in the background.
basic
If you talk softly, people might not hear you at the back.
natural
She laughed softly at his joke.
natural