WordGarden.ioagreeably
C1Pronunciation
UK
- /əɡrˈiːəbli/
US
Meanings
Adverb
in a pleasant or pleasing way
Beyond the definition
To do something "agreeably" means to do it in a pleasant, willing, or harmonious way. Imagine offering your friend the last slice of pizza—if they accept agreeably, they take it with a smile and a thank-you. It suggests a lack of resistance and a positive attitude. You might describe someone as acting "agreeably" when they are cooperative and easy to get along with. Sometimes, "agreeably" can also mean something is happening in a way that is pleasing or satisfactory—like an agreeably warm summer evening.
Think of it as the opposite of doing something grudgingly or reluctantly. If you agree to help someone agreeably, you're genuinely happy to do so. A good rule of thumb: if smiles and goodwill are involved, "agreeably" probably fits.
The word "agreeably" is an adverb that describes how something is done or happens. It signifies a pleasantness, willingness, or harmony in the action itself. It's more than just agreeing to do something; it is about doing it with a good attitude and without complaint.
For example: "She accepted his apology agreeably, relieved that the misunderstanding was over." This doesn't just mean she agreed to forgive him, but that she did so in a kind and welcoming manner. Or consider: "The weather turned agreeably mild after days of rain." Here, it means the change in temperature was pleasant and welcome.
"Agreeably" often implies a sense of mutual satisfaction or ease. A conversation might proceed agreeably if both parties are respectful and open-minded. A task can be completed agreeably when everyone involved works together harmoniously.
In a slightly different (and more formal) pattern, you’ll see agreeably to meaning “in accordance with” or “as specified by”: "Agreeably to the contract, payment is due on the first of the month." In this sense, the word is less about being pleasant and more about matching a rule, request, or plan.
It's important to note that "agreeably" doesn't necessarily mean enthusiastic—just positive and without friction. It suggests a smooth and pleasant experience. Rather than simply stating that someone agreed to a request, saying they responded agreeably highlights their cooperative and friendly demeanor.
Examples
- 1
Weather
The garden was agreeably cool in the early morning.
- 2
Hospitality
The hotel was simple but agreeably quiet at night.
- 3
Pleasant surprise
I was agreeably surprised by how good the food was.
- Phraseagreeably surprised
pleasantly surprised, in a good way
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- agreeably surprised
- agreeably warm
- agreeably cool
Word family
- agreeable
- agreeableness
Explore
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- agreeablyadverb