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

Because of this, earlier designs were far less efficient and couldn't connect directly with living neurons, which are sensitive to stronger electrical signals.

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"Well, I heard it directly from sheriff Davis's mouth so I guess I have to start believing it. Jeremy Moore 10-20-87 to 10-10-25. Rest in peace my sweet baby boy," she wrote.

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It resulted in significant clinical disruption and directly contributed to at least one patient death.

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The directive noted exemptions to Medicare, Social Security benefits and assistance provided directly to individuals.

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To simplify the process, the researchers tested a second version using killed tumor cells, called tumor lysate, derived directly from the cancer itself.

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Related Words

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