A2adverb2K

Happily

UK /["/ˈhæpɪli/"]/US /["/ˈhæpɪli/"]/

Definition

in a cheerful way; with feelings of pleasure

In simple words: In a way that shows joy or satisfaction.

Examples

  • children playing happily on the beach
  • to be **happily married**
  • I think we can manage quite happily on our own.
  • **And they all lived happily ever after** *(= used as the end of a ).
  • Happily, the damage was only slight.
  • I'll happily help, if I can.
  • A majority of those interviewed said they would happily accept a tax increase if the money went to health and education.
  • This suggestion did not fit very happily with our existing plans.

Usage notes

Use 'happily' when describing how someone does something with joy. It's appropriate in both spoken and written English. Avoid using it in very serious or formal contexts.

Grammar pattern

standalone adverb

Memory hint

Think of a scene where people are dancing joyfully and saying 'happy' while doing so.

Collocations

  • smile happily
  • live happily
  • sing happily

Synonyms

  • joyfully
  • gleefully
  • cheerfully
  • delightedly

Antonyms

  • unhappily
  • sadly

Common mistakes

  • Using 'happy' instead of 'happily' as an adverb.
  • Placing 'happily' too far from the verb it describes.
  • Confusing with 'happened' due to similar sounds.