Pronunciations (2)
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/ˈlaɪtli/
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ˈlaɪtli
Adverb
In a light manner.
- Examples
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As a teacher, I don't take rudeness in class lightly.
More examples (2)
Elbows almost touching they leaned at ease, idly reading the almost obliterated lines engraved there. ¶ "I never understood it," she observed, lightly scornful. "What occult meaning has a sun-dial for the spooney? I'm sure I don't want to read riddles in a strange gentleman's optics."
In the Southern Region of British Railways, most of the damage was caused by earthslips which blocked one or both roads. Obstructions occurred at 21 places in the London Eastern District, and at 18 places in London Central District. On the other hand, the London Western District escaped comparatively lightly.
Adverb
without good reason
- Examples
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one cannot say such things lightly
with few burdens
- Synonyms
- Examples
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experienced travellers travel light
with little weight or force
- Examples
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she kissed him lightly on the forehead
indulging with temperance
- Antonyms
- Examples
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we eat lightly in the morning
with indifference or without dejection
- Examples
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he took it lightly
in a small quantity or extent
- Synonyms
- Examples
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spread the margarine thinly over the meat
apply paint lightly
to a slight degree
- Examples
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her speech is only lightly accented