Synonyms for

Lightly

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

Definition

in a gentle or delicate manner

Synonyms & similar words

thinly light gently softly thickly heavily gently softly feather-light delicately tenderly faintly subtly slightly mildly moderately carefully cautiously gingerly tentatively unassumingly breezily airy ethereal daintily frailly

Synonyms by register

Formal

gently mildly softly subtly

Informal

easy carefully barely a little

Literary

ethereally delicately feebly

Antonyms

heavily forcefully strongly intensely vigorously powerfully

Common collocations

  • touch lightly
  • press lightly
  • sprinkle lightly
  • season lightly
  • blow lightly
  • fall lightly
  • land lightly

Word family

noun lightness
adjective light
adverb lightly

Usage note

Often used to describe a gentle touch or a small amount. Can also refer to a lack of weight or seriousness.

Example sentences

  1. He knocked lightly on the door.
  2. She skipped lightly down the street.
  3. The butterfly landed lightly on the flower.
  4. He spoke lightly about the subject.
  5. She danced lightly across the stage.

Quotes

  • 'I am a feather for each wind that blows.' - Indira Gandhi
  • 'Let your light shine. Be a source of strength and courage. Share your wisdom. Radiate love.' - Wilferd Peterson
  • 'Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.' - Martin Luther King Jr.

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