Directly
/daɪˈrektli/
Definitions
3 meaningsIn a straight line or manner; without deviation.
/daɪˈrektli/
In a straight line or manner
The bus goes directly to the airport.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're following a path – 'directly' means going right to where you want to be without stopping or taking a detour. Like, you're walking directly to your friend's house.
👶 For kids: Going straight to a place or doing something right away.
More Examples
She spoke directly to the issue at hand.
The sun shone directly into my eyes.
How It's Used
"The arrow flew directly to the target."
"The train goes directly to London."
Without anything else being involved; in a straightforward or clear way.
/daɪˈrektli/
Without any interference or intervention
She complained directly to the manager.
💡 Simply: When something is 'directly', it means there are no steps in between. Like, if you talk to someone directly, you talk to them face-to-face, not through a friend.
👶 For kids: Doing something or talking to someone without anything in the way.
More Examples
The evidence points directly to the suspect.
The store sources its products directly from the manufacturer.
How It's Used
"He addressed the problem directly, without mincing words."
"The company sells directly to consumers, bypassing retailers."
Very soon or immediately; in a short time.
/daɪˈrektli/
Very soon; almost immediately
I will contact him directly.
💡 Simply: It's like saying 'right away' or 'very soon.' If someone says they'll be there directly, they mean it's going to happen quickly. Like, 'I'll get the snacks directly!'
👶 For kids: Right away or very soon.
More Examples
The package will be shipped directly.
I'll finish this directly and join you.
How It's Used
"I'll be there directly."
"She promised to call me directly."
Idioms & expressions
directly or indirectly
By a clear path, or in a roundabout way.
"The incident affected the economy both directly and indirectly."
From Middle English *directly*, from Old French *directement* and directly from Latin *dīrectē*.
Used since the late 14th century, originally as a term related to straightness and direction.
Memory tip
Think of a straight line – directly goes straight to the point.