directly
|di-rect-ly|
B1
🇺🇸
/dəˈrɛktli/
🇬🇧
/dɪˈrɛktli/
(direct)
straightforward guidance
Etymology
Etymology Information
'directly' originates from the Latin word 'directus,' where 'di-' meant 'apart' and 'rectus' meant 'straight.'
Historical Evolution
'directus' transformed into the Old French word 'directement,' and eventually became the modern English word 'directly.'
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'in a straight line,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'without any intervening agency.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adverb 1
in a straight line or by the shortest route.
The road runs directly to the city center.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Adverb 2
without any intervening agency or instrumentality.
She spoke directly to the manager about her concerns.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35