Nearly

Definition

Nearly is an adverb that means "almost but not quite" or "close to a certain amount, degree, or situation."

Parts of Speech

• Adverb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈnɪr.li/
• Respelling: NEER-lee

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈnɪə.li/
• Respelling: NEER-lee

Etymology

The word "nearly" originates from the Middle English "nerli," which comes from "nere" (near) and the suffix "-ly," denoting an adverbial form. The root "nere" derives from the Old English "neah" (close, near), related to the Proto-Germanic "*nēhwaz."

Derivatives

• Near (adjective, adverb, preposition)
• Nearness (noun)
• Nearly impossible (phrase)
• Nearly there (phrase)
• Nearer (comparative form)

Synonyms

• Almost
• Practically
• Close to

Antonyms

• Exactly
• Completely
• Totally

Usage

The adverb "nearly" is frequently used to describe a close approximation or something that almost occurs. For example: "I’ve nearly finished my homework," or "The bottle is nearly empty."

Related Terms

• Almost: Very close to happening or being true.
• Close: Near in distance, time, or degree.
• Approximately: Roughly or nearly accurate.

Detailed Definitions

Adverb

• Almost but not completely: Indicates an action or state that is close to completion but not entirely achieved.
  • Example: "He was nearly asleep when the phone rang."
• Close to a specific amount or degree: Refers to an approximation that is not exact but very near.
  • Example: "The car costs nearly $50,000."