adverb
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in an honest manner
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(intensifier)
I honestly don't believe it
interjection
Etymology
Origin of honestly
First recorded in 1300–50; Middle English honestli(che) “honorably, respectably; respectfully; fittingly, properly”; see origin at honest, -ly
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
“He has honestly exquisite taste—everything from the finishes, to the design and lighting—I really respect his style.”
From MarketWatch ● Jul. 14, 2026
"They say education is the key, but honestly speaking we never find the padlock open," Daniel told AFP.
From Barron's ● Jul. 13, 2026
But basically, what I was doing was honestly trying to match Bonnie’s commitment at the level she did with her voice, which is what I loved about all of her performances and Jim Steinman’s music.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 10, 2026
In the run-up to Emmy nomination morning — and, honestly, at any other time of the year — you may have heard super-producer Taylor Sheridan preemptively flipping the bird at Emmy voters and critics.
From Salon ● Jul. 9, 2026
“Given how little time you had to learn the water monster songs, Wind Being and I are honestly surprised.”
From "Healer of the Water Monster" by Brian Young
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
