manually
3 synonyms and 0 antonyms for manually, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adv — By hand, or without the help of a machine or automatic process.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use manually
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Frequently asked questions
What does “manually” mean?
The word “manually” means by hand, or without the help of a machine or automatic process. In plain terms, doing something yourself, by hand, rather than letting a machine or automated system do it.
How do you pronounce “manually”?
“Manually” is pronounced MAN-yuh-lee (/ˈmænj(u)əliː/ in IPA).
How do you use “manually” in a sentence?
Here is “manually” used in a sentence: “When the software crashed, she had to enter the data manually.”
What part of speech is “manually”?
“Manually” is an adverb.
Is “manually” a common word?
“Manually” is an uncommon word in modern English.
What is the difference between manually and automatically?
Manually describes a task performed by hand or through direct human effort, while automatically describes a task carried out by a machine or system without ongoing human input. The two words are commonly used as opposites when describing how a process is completed.
Is manually used only for physical tasks?
No, manually is also commonly used for computer and software processes, such as manually updating a file or manually approving a transaction, where it means the action was triggered by a person rather than an automated system. This extends the core sense of "without an automatic process" beyond purely physical actions.
What is the difference between manually and by hand?
Manually and by hand are close synonyms, but "by hand" more strongly suggests direct physical touch, such as writing or assembling something with one's hands. Manually is broader and can describe any action done without automation, including steps taken through a keyboard or control panel.