C1adverb3K

Namely

UK /["/ˈneɪmli/"]/US /["/ˈneɪmli/"]/

Definition

used to introduce more exact and detailed information about something that you have just mentioned

In simple words: That is to say; specifically

Examples

  • We need to concentrate on our target audience, namely women aged between 20 and 30.

Usage notes

Use 'namely' when you want to give specific examples that clarify something you just mentioned. It is appropriate in both written and spoken contexts but avoid in very casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

namely + list of items

Memory hint

Sounds like 'name-lee' — think of naming specific examples.

Collocations

  • namely the following
  • used namely
  • items namely

Synonyms

  • specifically
  • that is
  • to be specific
  • in particular

Antonyms

  • vaguely
  • indefinitely
  • ambiguously

Common mistakes

  • Using 'namely' without a comma before it.
  • Confusing it with 'for example' when 'namely' is more precise.
  • Misplacing it in a sentence, making it unclear.