solidly
B1Pronunciation
UK
- /sˈɒlɪdli/
US
- /ˈsɑlədli/
Description
- firmly
- strongly
- completely
- continuously
- reliably
To do something "solidly" means to do it in a firm, reliable, and complete way. It gives the sense that something is strong, steady, and not likely to fail. A carpenter might build a table solidly, meaning it is well made and will not wobble. In the same way, a person can support an argument solidly with clear evidence, or a business can be solidly profitable year after year.
The word is often about strength and trust, but it can also mean doing something without a break. If you work solidly for three hours, you keep going the whole time. In many cases, it suggests that something is well supported, firmly in place, or able to hold up under pressure.
"Solidly" is an adverb that describes the way something is done or the way something exists, with a sense of firmness, reliability, and completeness. It is not only about finishing something, but about doing it well and on a strong base. Imagine a bridge built solidly; you would feel safe crossing it because it was made with care and strength.
You can use "solidly" in several ways. It often describes how well an argument or position is supported: "She defended her thesis solidly, presenting clear evidence for every claim." It can also show stability and permanence when talking about relationships, organizations, or businesses. A company that is solidly established has a strong place in its market and can handle difficulties better than a weaker one. A home built solidly or a wall fixed solidly gives the idea of physical strength and dependability.
Beyond actions and structures, "solidly" can describe firm support or a fixed position. For example, "He was solidly behind his friend's decision" shows steady, complete support. It also has a time-related meaning: "continuously" or "without a break." If it rains solidly all afternoon, the rain keeps falling the whole time. If someone studies solidly for hours, they keep working with no real pause.
While it is close in meaning to words like "firmly" or "strongly," "solidly" often adds the idea of being well built, well supported, or lasting. It suggests that something is not weak, loose, or uncertain. The word works well for physical objects, ideas, business results, support, and stretches of time that continue without interruption.
Examples
- 1
Construction
The cabin was solidly built and stayed warm all winter.
- 2
Attachment
The shelf is solidly attached to the wall, so it won't fall.
- 3
Sports score
By halftime, our team was solidly in the lead.
Phrase
solidly in the lead
clearly ahead and unlikely to lose that position soon
- 4
Institutional support
Most teachers are solidly behind the new reading program.
Pattern
solidly behind + person/plan
strongly supporting them or it
- 5
Social class
She grew up in a solidly middle-class neighborhood.
Phrase
solidly middle-class
clearly and typically middle-class
- 6
Research quality
The book is solidly researched, even if it isn't very exciting.
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- solidlyadverb