nearly - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
nearly Word Meanings
- Almost, not quite
- Very close to a state, number, or time
- Used figuratively to mean virtually or nearly so
nearly Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
nearly Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈnɪəli/
US
/ˈnɪrli/
nearly Word Etymology
Root decomposition: near + suffix -ly. Historical origin: Old English near, from Proto-Germanic *nar; the adverbial suffix -ly derives from Old English -lice, from Proto-Germanic *-līkaz. Memory image: picture a runner nearly crossing the finish line, the tape fluttering just out of reach.
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 cradle the kettle and steady my wrist, watching the water move in tiny swirls. I shift the flame a notch, adjust the heat, and let the kettle settle into a quiet rhythm. The steam thickens and my fingers find a steady tempo, and I keep nudging the timer. When the moment narrows to a soft glow, it feels nearly there, not quite, and I breathe out with the last little push to finish.
Real Context
Nearly is an adverb meaning almost or not quite. It emphasizes that something is very close to a state, number, or time, but misses by a small margin. You can use it for physical proximity (nearly there), quantities (nearly a hundred), or moments (nearly noon). It also works in figurative sense to mean virtually true or almost the case (nearly identical, nearly impossible). In nuance, nearly often suggests a tiny gap before the boundary, sometimes with a sense of relief or surprise when the limit is nearly reached. It is typically followed by adjectives, numbers, or time expressions.
Usage Reminders
- - Use nearly with time, quantity, or state boundaries to show a close call
- - Compare with almost to notice subtle nuance differences
- - Pair with adjectives that describe closeness (nearly finished, nearly identical)
- - Be careful with negatives (nearly not = unusual; prefer almost not)
- - Practice with real examples from news or stories
Common Misconceptions
- Nearly and almost are similar but not identical in nuance; nearly can imply a tiny gap before the limit.
- Be careful not to say 'nearly not' in negative contexts; use almost or not quite instead.
- Avoid using nearly with absolute statements (nearly impossible is fine; nearly always means almost always).
- Do not pair nearly with verbs directly in some past constructions; often you need 'nearly finished' rather than 'nearly finish'.
- Mistaking nearly for 'almost' in every case; some phrases prefer one over the other.
Thinking Differences
English learners should note that nearly subtly marks a boundary that is not quite reached, unlike almost which can feel stronger or more definite in some contexts. Focus on collocations with time, numbers, and state adjectives to convey precision of closeness.
Learning Tips
- Distinguish nearly from almost by focusing on the sense of a tiny gap to a boundary
- Use nearly with numbers and times to show proximity (nearly 100, nearly noon)
- Pair with adjectives to express closeness (nearly finished, nearly identical)
- Practice negation: nearly not vs almost not depends on nuance
- Read real-life examples to hear natural usage
- Create your own sentences linking outcomes to near-misses
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 2: Usage
Which of the following sentences uses 'nearly' correctly?
A.He nearly forgot to eat breakfast.
B.She nearly stayed home all day.
C.The assignment nearly submitted on time.
D.I nearly take the bus to work.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'nearly'?
A.Clearly
B.Virtually
C.Exactly
D.Frequently
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'nearly'?
A.Fully
B.Partially
C.Precisely
D.Completely
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life scenario where 'nearly' can be used?
A.She finished the marathon just in time.
B.The plane was nearly on time for departure.
C.The exam results were surprisingly good.
D.He completed the puzzle without any errors.
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
Want to practice more words?
Download LexiTalk app for personalized learning experience
Download App