nearly

[ neer-lee ]

adverb

1. all but; almost:

   nearly dead with cold.

2. with close approximation:

   a nearly perfect likeness.

3. with close agreement or resemblance:

   a plan nearly like our own.

4. with close kinship, interest, or connection; intimately:

   nearly associated in business;

   two women nearly related.

nearly

/ ˈnɪəlɪ /

adverb

1. not quite; almost; practically
2. not nearly
   nowhere near; not at all

   not nearly enough money

3. closely

   the person most nearly concerned

Word History and Origins

Origin of nearly¹

First recorded in 1530–40; near + -ly

Synonym Study

See almost.

Example Sentences

A groin injury that sidelined the junior for two games certainly didn’t help, but it seems as if he hasn’t been nearly as much on the attack as he was last February and March.

From Los Angeles Times

Jurors have heard the group were involved in six operations against individuals and places of interest to the Russian state for nearly three years.

From BBC

Using a variety of programs, Biden has canceled $175 billion in student debt for nearly 5 million borrowers, according to Business Insider.

From Salon

He was charged with murder following Ms Marshall's death on 11 March 2023, nearly two years after the incident.

From BBC

A November study estimated that, in the eastern Himalayas, more than 10,000 people living in nearly 2000 settlements, as well as five bridges and two hydropower plants, are at risk from outbreak floods.

From Science Magazine

Related Words

• approximately
• practically
• roughly
• virtually