easily - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
easily Word Meanings
- Without much effort; not difficult.
- Readily or easily done; requiring little effort or skill.
- Used in comparisons to emphasize a high degree, e.g., easily the best.
easily Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
easily Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈiː.zɪ.li/
US
/ˈiː.zɪ.li/
easily Word Etymology
a) suffix -ly attaches to the root easy to form easily. b) origin: from Latin facilis via Old French aisé to English easy. c) memory image: picture a task gliding along on a breeze, effort-free and smooth.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I grab the remote and hold it steady, then move my thumb to the big button. I turn the dial and adjust the volume, watching the numbers rise with a light touch. The action flows with little effort, and it feels easily within reach, like the move is guiding itself. When I use it in real life, I set a pace that fits the moment, and the thing becomes part of my routine.
Real Context
Like many English adverbs, easily describes how something is done or how something stands in comparison. It usually modifies a verb: you can finish easily, solve the problem easily, or run easily after practice. It can also modify adjectives in phrases such as 'easily the best' to emphasize a high degree, though in that sense the intensifier is more about overall merit than mere convenience. Note that easily differs from easy: easy is an adjective describing the noun itself, while easily tells you about the manner of the action. Etymology aside, remember that the pace of a task can be 'done easily' but achieving something 'easily' often implies skill, timing, or favorable conditions.
Usage Reminders
- - Use easily with verbs: finish easily, solve easily, run easily
- - Distinguish easy as an adjective vs easily as an adverb
- - In 'easily the best', the phrase emphasizes merit, not effort alone
- - Compare actions with 'more easily' or 'less easily' to show relative ease
- - Avoid 'easily good/bad'—prefer 'easily good' is usually wrong; rephrase to 'easy to be' or 'done easily'
Common Misconceptions
- Easy and easily are not interchangeable; easy describes a noun, easily describes how an action is done.
- You cannot say 'easily to do something'; use 'easy to do' instead or restructure the sentence.
- Heavy use of easily in formal writing can sound casual; reserve for spoken style or specific emphases.
- Don't place easily before an adjective (e. g., 'easily good'); use it with verbs or before 'the' and a noun phrase (easily the best).
- In comparisons, use 'more easily' or 'less easily' to show relative ease.
Thinking Differences
English often uses easily with dynamic actions to emphasize effortless execution, but learners sometimes overuse it or apply it to adjectives. In many languages, the adverbial form must align with the verb and sentence flow; learners may translate directly, producing awkward word order.
Learning Tips
- Practice with verbs: finish easily, solve easily, run easily.
- Pair easily with common verbs used in everyday tasks.
- Compare easily with easy: remember its adverbial role.
- Use 'more easily' for comparisons; 'less easily' for the opposite.
- Listen for natural collocations in spoken English.
- Write sentences to reinforce verb-adverb combinations.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'easily'?
A.Bravely
B.Hardly
C.Carelessly
D.Quickly
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'easily' used correctly?
A.He struggled with the task with difficulty.
B.He struggled with the task effortlessly.
C.He completed the task with difficulty.
D.He completed the task effortlessly.
Step 3: Similar Words
Choose the word most similar to 'easily'.
A.Difficultly
B.Painfully
C.Challengingly
D.Effortlessly
Step 4: Opposite Words
Choose the word opposite in meaning to 'easily'.
A.Strenuously
B.Quickly
C.Effortlessly
D.Rapidly
Step 5: Mastery
In what situation would someone use 'easily'?
A.Describing a difficult obstacle
B.Describing a simple task
C.Describing a complicated situation
D.Describing a strenuous exercise
Related Listening
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🔥 Advanced
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