directly

[ dih-rekt-lee, dahy- ]

adverb

1. in a direct line, way, or manner; straight:

   The path leads directly to the lake.

2. at once; without delay; immediately:

   Do that directly.

3. shortly; soon:

   They will be here directly.

4. exactly; precisely:

   directly opposite the store.

5. without intervening space; next in order:

   The truck was parked directly behind my car.

6. openly or frankly; candidly:

   He didn't hesitate to speak directly about his debts.

   Synonyms: freely

7. Mathematics. in direct proportion.

conjunction

1. as soon as:

   Directly he arrived, he mentioned the subject.

directly

/ dɪˈrɛktlɪ; daɪ- /

adverb

1. in a direct manner
2. at once; without delay
3. foll bybefore or after immediately; just

conjunction

1. subordinating as soon as

   we left directly the money arrived

Word History and Origins

Origin of directly¹

First recorded in 1350–1400, directly is from the Middle English word directli. See direct, -ly

Synonym Study

See immediately.

Related Words

• immediately
• instantaneously
• instantly
• promptly
• quickly
• shortly