flatly

American  

[flat-lee] / ˈflæt li /

adverb

1. absolutely and without qualification.

   Our offer was flatly rejected.

2. without vitality or animation.

   He spoke flatly about the death of his wife.

3. in a level, even, or smooth manner.

   Apply the tape flatly to the pipe.

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Etymology

Origin of flatly

First recorded in 1560–70; flat ¹ ( def. ) + -ly ( def. )

Explanation

Saying something flatly means conveying a direct, clear idea in a firm way. It's fine to flatly instruct your dog walker to stop dressing your bulldog in a tutu. Someone who's comfortable being straightforward will have no problem flatly refusing to pay for a terrible meal in a restaurant or flatly directing a taxi driver to turn down the radio. Some synonyms for flatly include unequivocally and categorically. Sometimes this adverb is also used to mean "without emotion," as when you receive some stunningly bad news and flatly reply, "Oh, I see."

Example Sentences

When he ran for governor in 2018, his father told him flatly, “You’re going to get killed.”

From Slate • Apr. 29, 2026

The former congressman has flatly and vigorously denied criminal wrongdoing while acknowledging and apologizing for unspecific “mistakes.”

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 17, 2026

But when our philosophy and approach aren’t understood or are flatly rejected, we feel compelled to go public with our activism.

From Barron's • Apr. 16, 2026

In particular, the insurers flatly denied in court that their agents had any “special relationship of trust and confidence” with their customers.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 20, 2026

“Probably just talking in my sleep,” Conor said, flatly.

From "A Monster Calls" by Patrick Ness

Related Words

• absolutely
• categorically
• emphatically
• firmly
• unequivocally