greatly
Greatly (adv) means to a large extent or degree; very much. Example: “Her health has greatly improved since the surgery.”
How to use greatly
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA formal way of saying "very much" or "a lot," usually placed before a verb.
Word forms
more greatly comparative, greater comparative, greatlier comparative, most greatly superlative, greatest superlative, greatliest superlative
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Can you complete this real example?
Her health has _____ improved since the surgery.
Etymology
From Middle English gretly, formed from great plus the adverb-forming suffix -ly.
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for greatly
See all rhymes for greatly →Frequently asked questions
What does “greatly” mean?
The word “greatly” means to a large extent or degree; very much. In plain terms, a formal way of saying "very much" or "a lot," usually placed before a verb.
How do you pronounce “greatly”?
“Greatly” is pronounced GRAYT-lee (/ˈɡɹeɪtli/ in IPA).
How do you use “greatly” in a sentence?
Here is “greatly” used in a sentence: “Her health has greatly improved since the surgery.”
What is the opposite of “greatly”?
The opposite of “greatly” — its antonyms — is slightly.
What part of speech is “greatly”?
“Greatly” is an adverb.
Where does the word “greatly” come from?
The word “greatly” comes from Middle English. From Middle English gretly, formed from great plus the adverb-forming suffix -ly.
Is “greatly” a common word?
“Greatly” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.
What is the difference between 'greatly' and 'very'?
'Greatly' modifies verbs and means to a large extent, as in 'I greatly admire her,' while 'very' mainly modifies adjectives and adverbs, as in 'very tired.' You would not say 'very admire.'
When should you use 'greatly' instead of 'a lot'?
'Greatly' is more formal and usually comes before a verb or past participle, as in 'greatly improved.' 'A lot' is informal and usually follows the verb, as in 'improved a lot.' Choose 'greatly' for formal or written English.
Is 'greatly' formal or informal?
'Greatly' is fairly formal and appears often in writing and careful speech, especially with words like 'appreciate,' 'admire,' or 'exaggerated.' In casual conversation, speakers more often say 'a lot' or 'really.'
What words commonly follow 'greatly'?
'Greatly' often precedes verbs and participles such as 'greatly appreciate,' 'greatly improved,' 'greatly reduced,' and 'greatly exaggerated.' It typically strengthens the verb rather than an adjective.
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