adverb
Uncommon
successively
suhk-SES-iv-lee
Successively (adverb) means following one after another in a series. Example: “The runner won the race three years successively.”
adverb
1
Following one after another in a series.
"The runner won the race three years successively."
"Successively, each speaker addressed the same question."
"The lights turned on successively along the corridor."
How to use successively
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishOne after the other, in order.
When to use it
Successively is a neutral, everyday adverb suited to both formal and informal writing.
Memory tip
Use it when things happen in an unbroken sequence, not just at some point after another.
Trace the full origin ↓
Common pairings
successively higher
won successively
occur successively
placed successively
Vocabulary Flow
Build your vocabulary from words like successively.
Vocabulary Flow serves the next word, and the next — meaning, pronunciation and an example each time. Practice at your level, or learn English in your own language.
Start vocabulary practice
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The runner won the race three years _____.
Etymology
Successively is formed from the adjective successive with the adverb-forming suffix -ly.
Rhymes for successively
See all rhymes for successively →Frequently asked questions
What does successively mean?
It describes things happening one after another in a series, without anything else coming between them.
How is successively different from consecutively?
They are close in meaning, and both point to items following one another in order; the grounding text does not draw a further distinction.
Can successively describe people as well as events?
Yes, it can describe people, events or objects that follow each other in turn.
What is the meaning of successively?
"successively" (adverb) means following one after another in a series.
