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popularly

A2
adverb

Pronunciation

UK

  • /pˈɒpjʊləli/

US

  • /ˈpɑpjələrli/

Description

"Popularly" describes something as it is commonly understood, named, believed, or accepted by many people. It is a little different from "popular," which usually means something is liked. "Popularly" is more about what is widespread among the public. For example, a plant might be popularly known as a "Money Tree," even if its scientific name is different. You can also talk about an idea that is popularly believed, meaning many people think it is true, whether or not it really is. It often appears in phrases like "popularly known as," "popularly believed," and "popularly accepted."

Examples

  1. 1

    Common name

    The tower is popularly known as Big Ben.

  2. 2

    Common label

    The dish is popularly called fish and chips, even when it comes with mushy peas.

  3. 3

    Common belief

    It is popularly believed that carrots help you see better in the dark.

  4. 4

    Popular misconception

    Contrary to popularly held belief, the lake is not very deep.

    • Phrase

      popularly held belief

      an idea many people believe

  5. 5

    Elections

    The mayor is popularly elected every four years.

    • Phrase

      popularly elected

      chosen by voters in a public election

Forms and spellings

1 form open this card.

Main spelling

  • popularlyadverb