B1adverb2K

Directly

UK /["/dəˈrektli//daɪˈrektli/"]/US /["/dəˈrektli//daɪˈrektli/"]/

Definition

without stopping or changing direction

In simple words: In a straight manner or with no delays.

Examples

I will directly address your concerns during the meeting.
Please speak directly into the microphone for the best sound quality.
She went directly to the source to get the correct information.
He contacted the company directly to resolve the issue.
The road runs directly south from here.

Usage notes

Use 'directly' to emphasize straightforward communication or action. It fits well in both casual and professional conversations, but avoid it in overly emotional language.

Grammar pattern

directly + verb

Memory hint

Think of 'directly' as walking straight, no turns.

Collocations

speak directly
respond directly
move directly
address directly
contact directly

Synonyms

shortly

Antonyms

indirectly
circuitously

Common mistakes

Using 'directly' incorrectly with indirect objects.
Confusing 'directly' with 'indirectly'.
Overusing 'directly' in contexts where it is not needed.