Safely

/ˈseɪfli/

adverbBeginnerVery CommonGeneral

Definitions

1

In a way that protects from harm or danger; securely.

/ˈseɪfli/

adverbneutralBeginner
General

In a safe manner

The hikers returned safely from their trek.

💡 Simply: Like when you cross the street, you want to make it across safely – meaning without any cars hitting you! So basically, safely means to do something in a way that keeps you from getting hurt or into trouble.

👶 For kids: Doing something without getting hurt or in danger.

More Examples

2

Please drive safely.

3

She stored the jewels safely in a vault.

How It's Used

General

"The children arrived safely at their grandparents' house."

Transportation

"The plane landed safely."

Idioms & expressions

playing it safe

To be cautious or avoid taking risks.

"To avoid any problems, the company decided to play it safe and cancel the event."

From Middle English "safeliche", equivalent to "safe" + "-ly". The word's origin traces back to Old French "sauf", derived from Latin "salvus" meaning "safe, healthy".

Historically, "safely" was frequently used in reports of travel and military campaigns, emphasizing the protection of individuals and resources.

Memory tip

Think of a safe, strong box. Things kept inside are safely protected.

saflysaffely

Usage

60%Spoken
40%Written