honestly

American  

[on-ist-lee] / ˈɒn ɪst li /

adverb

1. in an honest, truthful, or sincere manner.

   Parents are encouraged to speak honestly with their kids about drugs and alcohol.

2. actually; truly.

   She was honestly surprised that he’d remembered their anniversary at all.

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interjection

1. (used to express mild exasperation, disbelief, dismay, etc.).

   Honestly! I want to finish this work, and you keep interrupting.

honestly British  

/ ˈɒnɪstlɪ /

adverb

1. in an honest manner

2. (intensifier)

   I honestly don't believe it

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interjection

1. an expression of disgust, surprise, etc

Etymology

Origin of honestly

First recorded in 1300–50; Middle English honestli(che) “honorably, respectably; respectfully; fittingly, properly”; honest, -ly

Example Sentences

We must confront the causal factors of antisemitism honestly and address antisemitism where it is most common and most virulent.

From Los Angeles Times

The safe firm chooses Option A and earns its lighter burden honestly.

From The Wall Street Journal

They might honestly believe they gave themselves the best chance in Australia, on and off the field, because that is the approach McCullum instructed them to take.

From BBC

He says people would be wise to honestly assess whether they fit the vision.

From The Wall Street Journal

If Wagner’s job seems to require an unusual combination of skills—mastery of fluid dynamics, comfort with public speaking, strong pint tolerance—he comes by them honestly.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• fairly
• genuinely
• justly
• sincerely