directly

American  

[dih-rekt-lee, dahy-] / dɪˈrɛkt li, daɪ- /

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.

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conjunction

1. as soon as.

   Directly he arrived, he mentioned the subject.

directly British  

/ dɪˈrɛktlɪ, daɪ- /

adverb

1. in a direct manner

2. at once; without delay

3. immediately; just

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conjunction

1. (subordinating) as soon as

   we left directly the money arrived

Related Words

See immediately.

Etymology

Origin of directly

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

Example Sentences

The data not only verified the presence of an ice plain but also showed that the ice loss directly contributed to rising global sea levels.

From Science Daily

Although this study did not directly test tyrosine supplements, the findings raise questions about its long term impact on health and lifespan.

From Science Daily

While farmers welcome the help, the aid comes after years of falling behind financially, meaning that a lot of the money will go directly back to creditors.

From The Wall Street Journal

Still, falling mortgage rates translate directly to the bottom line of home buying.

From The Wall Street Journal

This pattern suggests that the formation of titanium rich rocks is directly connected to the creation of strong magnetic episodes.

From Science Daily

Related Words

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