WordGarden.ioquietly
A2Pronunciation
UK
- /kwˈaɪətli/
US
- /ˈkwaɪətli/
Meanings
Adverb
with little noise or in a soft voice
in a calm, restrained, or unobtrusive way
Beyond the definition
To do something quietly means to do it with little or no sound, but the word often means more than just being low in volume. It can describe doing something in a careful or private way so people do not notice it much. A cat might stalk its prey quietly, moving without a single rustle. You might ask a friend a question quietly so others do not overhear. Sometimes, "quietly" also gives a feeling of peace and calm, like leaves falling quietly to the ground in a still forest.
As an adverb, "quietly" modifies verbs to describe how an action is done. It is often used with verbs like speak, move, leave, or work. Whether a detective is quietly watching someone or a librarian is asking people to read quietly, the word suggests little noise and little disturbance. It is often the opposite of doing something loudly or in a way that draws attention.
"Quietly" is an adverb that describes doing something in a silent, calm, or discreet manner. While it literally means "without making much noise," its usage often implies a deliberate effort to avoid disturbance or unwanted attention.
Think of a mouse moving quietly through a house; it is not only silent but is also attempting to remain undetected. Similarly, imagine someone leaving a room quietly after an argument to avoid further confrontation. In these instances, "quietly" suggests a level of tact, consideration, and restraint.
The word can also evoke a profound sense of peace or tranquility. A river might flow quietly through a valley, or snow might fall quietly on a winter's night. These descriptions move away from the idea of "stealth" and instead emphasize the gentle, soothing nature of the action.
"Quietly" is often used to contrast with boisterous or obvious behavior. For example: "While everyone else was celebrating loudly, she slipped away quietly." It can even be used to describe inner feelings or private actions, such as someone who "sighed quietly" or "quietly hoped" for a change.
Ultimately, whether it is about minimizing sound, maintaining privacy, or creating a sense of calm, "quietly" describes an action performed with subtlety. It is a word that speaks volumes… without making a sound.
Examples
- 1
Quiet action
Please close the door quietly; the baby is asleep.
- 2
Classroom behavior
The children sat quietly while the teacher read the story.
- 3
Soft speech
"I don't feel well," she said quietly.
- 4
Avoiding noise
We talked quietly in the kitchen so we wouldn't wake anyone up.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Unpublicized change
Over the past year, the company has quietly changed its policy.
- 6
Low-profile help
He has been quietly helping local families for months.
- 7
Calm confidence
She seemed quietly confident before the interview.
- Phrasequietly confident
confident in a calm, not showy way
See also
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- quietlyadverb