nearly

[neer-lee]

adverb

1. all but; almost.

   nearly dead with cold.

2. with close approximation.

   a nearly perfect likeness.

3. with close agreement or resemblance.

   a plan nearly like our own.

4. with close kinship, interest, or connection; intimately.

   nearly associated in business;

   two women nearly related.

nearly

/ ˈnɪəlɪ /

adverb

1. not quite; almost; practically

2. nowhere near; not at all

   not nearly enough money

3. closely

   the person most nearly concerned

Word History and Origins

Origin of nearly¹

First recorded in 1530–40; near + -ly

Synonym Study

See almost.

Example Sentences

Vaping and nicotine pouches have surged to make up nearly 70% of the company's UK revenue in the last five years.

From BBC

Tuesday’s final vote on the trash fees came nearly six months after the council gave preliminary approval to the plan.

From Los Angeles Times

The EU is the UK's most important export destination for steel, worth nearly £3bn and representing 78% of steel products made in the UK for overseas markets.

From BBC

Its stock price has risen nearly 15% in the five trading days since the announcement.

From Los Angeles Times

As of last year, nearly 700 were documented in an aerial survey, with most ranging outside the territory, according to the agencies.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• approximately 
• practically 
• roughly 
• virtually