How Do You Spell SLIGHTLY?

Pronunciation: [slˈa͡ɪtli] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "slightly" can be confusing due to the presence of the unpronounced silent 'gh' which follows the letter 'li'. IPA phonetic transcription of the word is /ˈslaɪtli/. The 'gh' in this word comes from the old English letter 'h' which was pronounced, but over time it became silent. Today, it is no longer pronounced, and 'slightly' is pronounced as it is written. The meaning of the word 'slightly' signifies something being of a small degree or amount.

SLIGHTLY Meaning and Definition

  1. Slightly is an adverb that is used to indicate a small degree or amount of something, emphasizing a subtle or minor change. It suggests a slight, minimal, or imperceptible change or difference in quantity, intensity, degree, or quality.

    In terms of quantity or amount, slightly implies a small measure or increment that is not significant enough to make a substantial impact on the overall amount. For example, someone might say, "Can you lower the volume slightly?" indicating a request to decrease the volume by a small amount.

    When referring to intensity, slightly denotes a minor change in strength, force, or power, often implying a gentle or soft effect. For instance, one might say, "She smiled slightly," suggesting a subtle, almost imperceptible smile.

    In relation to degree, slightly means to a small extent or to a minor degree, indicating a small shift or alteration in intensity. For example, "He was slightly disappointed with the outcome of the game," suggests a minimal level of disappointment.

    Regarding quality, slightly refers to a modest difference or change in the characteristic or attribute of something. For instance, one might say, "The color looks slightly different in person," indicating a subtle variation in the appearance of the color.

    Overall, the term slightly signifies a small, subtle, or inconspicuous change or difference that is often barely noticeable or significantly minor.

  2. In a small degree; weakly.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Top Common Misspellings for SLIGHTLY *

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Etymology of SLIGHTLY

The word "slightly" originated from Middle English "lightli", which was derived from the Old English word "lyhtlic", meaning "lightly" or "swiftly". It is a combination of the word "lyht", which means "light" or "quick", and the suffix "-lic", indicating resemblance or similarity. Over time, "lightli" evolved into "slightly" and has maintained its meaning of something happening in a small or insignificant manner.

Idioms with the word SLIGHTLY

  • slightly rattled The idiom "slightly rattled" refers to being somewhat unsettled, disturbed, or agitated by a particular event, circumstance, or situation. It implies a slight level of nervousness or uneasiness, but not a significant or overwhelming amount of distress.

Similar spelling words for SLIGHTLY