honestly

American  

[on-ist-lee] / ˈɒn ɪst li /

adverb

1. in an honest, truthful, or sincere manner.

   Parents are encouraged to speak honestly with their kids about drugs and alcohol.

2. actually; truly.

   She was honestly surprised that he’d remembered their anniversary at all.

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interjection

1. (used to express mild exasperation, disbelief, dismay, etc.).

   Honestly! I want to finish this work, and you keep interrupting.

honestly British  

/ ˈɒnɪstlɪ /

adverb

1. in an honest manner

2. (intensifier)

   I honestly don't believe it

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interjection

1. an expression of disgust, surprise, etc

Etymology

Origin of honestly

First recorded in 1300–50; Middle English honestli(che) “honorably, respectably; respectfully; fittingly, properly”; see origin at honest, -ly

Example Sentences

"Honestly, this flyover of the Statue of Liberty is something I never imagined I would be able to do in my life," Commander Brice Beaudouin, leader of the patrol, told AFP ahead of the flyover.

From Barron's • Jun. 9, 2026

Honestly, you are in your 60s at this point, and I don’t see your husband going through a miraculous change through marital or even private therapy.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 6, 2026

Kelly: Honestly, it’s a little different, but it’s not that far off.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 4, 2026

"Honestly I am speechless," Shnaider said in her post-match interview.

From BBC • Jun. 3, 2026

Honestly, I never thought it would get this far.

From "A Very Large Expanse of Sea" by Tahereh Mafi

Related Words

• fairly
• genuinely
• justly
• sincerely