Quietly - Definition, Meaning, and Examples in English

Definition

^{Context #1 | Adverb}

in a quiet manner

With little or no noise; in a quiet or peaceful way. Without attracting attention or causing disturbance.

Synonyms

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
quietly	When you want to describe an action done without making much noise, but not necessarily in complete silence. She spoke quietly so as not to wake the baby He closed the door quietly behind him
silently	When an action is done without producing any sound at all. He worked silently in the library They moved silently through the forest
peacefully	When you want to describe an action done in a state of tranquility or without conflict. They resolved the dispute peacefully She slept peacefully throughout the night
calmly	When you need to describe someone doing something with a relaxed and serene demeanor, regardless of the external situation. She reacted calmly during the emergency He explained the situation calmly to everyone

Examples of usage

She tiptoed quietly across the room.
He whispered quietly so as not to wake the baby.
The students worked quietly on their assignments.
We sat quietly in the garden, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere.
The cat approached quietly, ready to pounce on the unsuspecting mouse.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

Research suggests that being in quiet environments can improve focus and cognitive performance.
Quietness is often associated with reduced stress levels, leading to a more positive mindset.
In meditation practices, achieving a state of quietness is essential for mental clarity and peace.

Cultural References

In many cultures, silence or quietness is viewed as a sign of respect, especially during moments of reflection or mourning.
Literature often portrays quiet characters as introspective and thoughtful, showcasing the power of silence.
Famous quotes about quietness, like from philosopher Lao Tzu, emphasize its importance in achieving wisdom and tranquility.

Science

Studies have shown that noise pollution can negatively impact physical and mental health, making quiet spaces increasingly valued.
Quiet environments can assist in the recovery of patients in hospitals, emphasizing the role of sound in healing.
Certain animals rely on quietness to hunt or evade predators, showcasing its evolutionary advantages.

Art and Literature

Many poems utilize quietness as a metaphor to evoke deep emotions and introspection.
Visual artists might depict serene landscapes to convey a sense of quietness and peace.
Films often use quiet moments effectively to build tension or allow audiences to reflect on the narrative.

Origin of 'quietly'

Main points about word origin

The word comes from the Latin 'quietus,' meaning 'at rest' or 'calm,' which lays the foundation for its current meaning.
Before the 17th century, the word was commonly used in the context of peace and calmness in literature.
The addition of 'ly' turns an adjective into an adverb, showing how an action can be performed softly.

The word 'quietly' originated from the Middle English word 'quietly' which meant in a quiet manner. The word 'quiet' itself is derived from the Old French word 'quiet' and the Latin word 'quietus', both meaning calm or at rest. Over time, 'quietly' has evolved to describe actions done with little or no noise, in a peaceful manner. It is commonly used in various contexts to indicate a lack of disturbance or attention.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,965, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.

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3962 cure
3963 gear
3964 manuscript
3965 quietly
3966 inevitable
3967 enforce
3968 declare
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Quietly Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations