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. 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.

Example Sentences

An adduct is a bulky chemical attachment that forms when a compound, such as a carcinogen, binds directly to DNA.

Read more on Science Daily

The Premier League does not sell tickets and league sources say ticket sales platforms, messaging and enforcement is primarily something clubs develop directly.

Read more on BBC

Mr Bhatti told us he was unable to comment on specific cases because of patient confidentiality and urged patients to contact the trust directly.

Read more on BBC

During a six-year battle to get them support, the couple say social workers lied directly to their children and disinformation about the family was circulated between officials.

Read more on BBC

She told her team to have Yugandhar call her directly, which he did, according to people familiar with the call.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• immediately 
• instantaneously www.thesaurus.com
• instantly 
• promptly 
• quickly 
• shortly