nearly

American  

[neer-lee] / ˈnɪər li /

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.

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nearly British  

/ ˈnɪəlɪ /

adverb

1. not quite; almost; practically

2. nowhere near; not at all

   not nearly enough money

3. closely

   the person most nearly concerned

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Related Words

See almost.

Etymology

Origin of nearly

First recorded in 1530–40; near + -ly

Example Sentences

In California, prices averaged nearly $5.90 a gallon as of Tuesday, according to AAA.

From MarketWatch

One of the greatest gangster films of all time was nearly marred by tragedy.

From The Wall Street Journal

Earlier this month, nearly 40 countries—including the U.K.,

From The Wall Street Journal

Autism spectrum disorder is a neurodevelopmental condition that manifests differently in nearly every person who has it.

From Los Angeles Times

Cities and farms should still have have ample water because major reservoirs in Northern California are nearly full.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• approximately
• practically
• roughly
• virtually