Safely: meaning, definitions and examples

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safely

 

[ ˈseɪfli ]

Adverb / Adjective
Context #1 | Adverb

in a secure manner

In a way that reduces the risk of harm or danger.

Synonyms

carefully, harmlessly, securely.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
safely

Appropriate when talking about being free from danger, typically in everyday life situations.

  • Please drive safely
  • The children played safely in the park
securely

Ideal for situations involving protection or preventing unauthorized access, often in technical or security-related contexts.

  • Make sure the password is stored securely
  • The door was securely locked
carefully

Used when emphasizing the need for attention and caution to avoid mistakes or accidents.

  • She carefully painted the picture
  • Please handle the glassware carefully
harmlessly

Refers to something being done without causing any harm, damage, or injury, often in scientific or medical settings.

  • The snake slithered away harmlessly
  • The experiment was conducted harmlessly on the animals

Examples of usage

  • He drove safely to avoid accidents.
  • She handled the fragile items safely to prevent breakage.
Context #2 | Adjective

free from harm or danger

In a manner that is not likely to cause or lead to harm or danger.

Synonyms

out of harm's way, protected, secure.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
safely

Use to describe actions or situations where there is no risk of harm or danger. Commonly used to talk about travel, activities, or methods.

  • She arrived home safely
  • Make sure to handle the chemicals safely
secure

Best used when discussing situations or environments that ensure safety and prevent loss or harm. It can also refer to feeling safe and confident.

  • The vault is secure and well-guarded
  • She feels secure in her new job
protected

Suitable for talking about something or someone that is being kept safe from danger or damage, often with planned actions or measures. It typically implies a sense of ongoing safety.

  • The documents are protected by a password
  • She felt protected under her parents’ care
out of harm's way

Effective in describing someone or something being moved from a dangerous place to a safer one. Often used in emergency situations or when discussing protective measures.

  • The children were taken out of harm's way during the storm
  • Keep your valuables out of harm's way

Examples of usage

  • The children played safely in the playground under supervision.
  • The house was built to be earthquake-proof and provide a safe environment for the residents.

Translations

Translations of the word "safely" in other languages:

🇵🇹 com segurança

🇮🇳 सुरक्षित रूप से

🇩🇪 sicher

🇮🇩 dengan aman

🇺🇦 безпечно

🇵🇱 bezpiecznie

🇯🇵 安全に (anzen ni)

🇫🇷 en toute sécurité

🇪🇸 de forma segura

🇹🇷 güvenli bir şekilde

🇰🇷 안전하게 (anjeonhage)

🇸🇦 بأمان (bi'aman)

🇨🇿 bezpečně

🇸🇰 bezpečne

🇨🇳 安全地 (ānquán de)

🇸🇮 varno

🇮🇸 örugglega

🇰🇿 қауіпсіз

🇬🇪 უსაფრთხოდ (usafrtkho)

🇦🇿 təhlükəsiz

🇲🇽 de forma segura

Etymology

The word 'safely' originated from the Middle English word 'safli' which meant 'securely'. It has been used in the English language since the 14th century. The concept of safety has always been important to human beings, and the word 'safely' continues to be commonly used in various contexts to emphasize the importance of protection and security.

See also: safe, safekeeping, safen, safeness, safety, unsafe.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,210, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.