Synonyms for

Hardly

Verb / ˈhɑ:rdli: / Another word for hardly — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Barely or almost not at all.

Synonyms & similar words

scarce just barely scarcely scarcely barely nearly virtually practically slightly marginally moderately reasonably

Synonyms by register

Formal

scarcely barely seldom rarely

Informal

not really not much just about

Literary

scantily meagerly

Antonyms

easily readily certainly definitely abundantly plentifully generously

Common collocations

  • hardly ever
  • hardly anyone
  • hardly anything
  • hardly surprising
  • hardly noticeable
  • hardly worth
  • hardly a
  • hardly speak

Word family

adverb hardly

Usage note

Hardly is an adverb meaning 'almost not at all' or 'scarcely'. It is often used to express surprise or disappointment that something is not happening or is not true.

Example sentences

  1. I could hardly see in the dark.
  2. He hardly ever talks to me.
  3. She worked so hard that she could hardly stand.
  4. We had hardly any time to prepare.
  5. He was hardly able to walk after the accident.

Quotes

  • I have hardly any patience for those who doubt me.
  • It is hardly possible to build anything if frustration, bitterness and a mood of helplessness prevail.
  • If you hardly ever smile, you hardly ever laugh.

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