safely
3 synonyms and 0 antonyms for safely, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adv — Without risk of harm or danger.
Synonyms
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Etymology
From Middle English savely, built from safe + the adverb-forming suffix -ly.
Full origin of safely →Frequently asked questions
What does “safely” mean?
The word “safely” means without risk of harm or danger. In plain terms, in a way that avoids danger or risk.
How do you pronounce “safely”?
“Safely” is pronounced SAYF-lee (/ˈseɪfli/ in IPA).
How do you use “safely” in a sentence?
Here is “safely” used in a sentence: “The plane landed safely despite the storm.”
What part of speech is “safely”?
“Safely” is an adverb.
Where does the word “safely” come from?
The word “safely” comes from Middle English. From Middle English savely, built from safe + the adverb-forming suffix -ly.
Is “safely” a common word?
“Safely” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
What is the difference between safely and securely?
Safely means without risk of harm or danger, focusing on avoiding injury, while securely means firmly fixed or well protected against loss, theft, or failure. You drive safely, but you lock a door securely.
What is the difference between 'safely' and 'safe'?
'Safe' is an adjective describing a noun, as in 'a safe journey', while 'safely' is the adverb describing how something is done, as in 'they travelled safely'. In fixed phrases like 'safe and sound', 'safe' is used idiomatically.
Where does the adverb 'safely' go in a sentence?
Safely usually follows the verb or comes at the end of the clause it modifies, as in 'they arrived safely' or 'handle it safely'. It describes how an action is carried out, without risk of harm.