Highly
/ˈhaɪli/
Definitions
To a considerable degree or amount; extremely.
/ˈhaɪli/
To a great extent or degree; very
The company is highly profitable.
💡 Simply: It means 'a lot!' Like, if someone is *highly* motivated, it's like they're REALLY motivated. If a book is *highly* recommended, lots of people like it!
👶 For kids: It means 'a lot'. Like, if something is *highly* good, it's very, very good!
More Examples
The research is highly significant.
The concert was highly enjoyable.
How It's Used
"He is highly intelligent."
"The product is highly successful in the market."
"She is highly regarded in her community."
Idioms & expressions
highly likely
Very probable or expected to happen.
"It's highly likely that it will rain tomorrow."
highly recommended
Strongly suggested or advised as being good or suitable.
"This restaurant is highly recommended by critics."
From Middle English *highliche*, equivalent to 'high' + '-ly'. The adverbial suffix '-ly' denotes manner or degree.
The use of 'highly' as an adverb has remained consistent over centuries, reflecting its core meaning of degree.
Memory tip
Think of a mountain peak – the higher you go, the more 'highly' something is.