honestly

[ on-ist-lee ]

adverb

1. in an honest, truthful, or sincere manner:

   Parents are encouraged to speak honestly with their kids about drugs and alcohol.

2. actually; truly:

   She was honestly surprised that he’d remembered their anniversary at all.

interjection

1. (used to express mild exasperation, disbelief, dismay, etc.):

   Honestly! I want to finish this work, and you keep interrupting.

honestly

/ ˈɒnɪstlɪ /

adverb

1. in an honest manner
2. (intensifier)

   I honestly don't believe it

interjection

1. an expression of disgust, surprise, etc

Word History and Origins

Origin of honestly¹

First recorded in 1300–50; Middle English honestli(che) “honorably, respectably; respectfully; fittingly, properly”; honest, -ly

Example Sentences

With a grin he added, ‘And honestly, I don’t find you particularly attractive.’

From Salon

“Let me say this: I have asked to read the allegations and I honestly have not had time to look at it, so I just can’t comment,” Wicker told reporters.

From Salon

“I honestly don’t know what to do about that.”

From Los Angeles Times

“I looked over my shoulder for the two days afterward, honestly. I would drive to pick up the boys or drive to go run errands, and I would look over my shoulder.”

From Los Angeles Times

"We honestly thought that there would be enough there for the years that we would need," she continued.

From BBC

Related Words

• fairly
• genuinely
• justly
• sincerely