scarcely

[ skairs-lee ]

adverb

1. barely; hardly; not quite:

   The light is so dim we can scarcely see.

2. definitely not:

   This is scarcely the time to raise such questions.

3. probably not:

   You could scarcely have chosen better.

scarcely

/ ˈskɛəslɪ /

adverb

1. hardly at all; only just
2. ironic.
   probably not or definitely not

   that is scarcely justification for your actions

Usage Note

See hardly.

Usage

See hardly

Word History and Origins

Origin of scarcely¹

First recorded in 1250–1300; Middle English; scarce, -ly

Synonym Study

See hardly.

Example Sentences

In a scarcely believable start to the trial the prosecution and defence argued about whether the case could be heard because so much time had passed since the original offence.

From BBC

Sze scarcely tried to conceal his activities: He would often walk into branches carrying bags of cash.

From Los Angeles Times

Carsley hoped his team would take control, but it scarcely looked like happening and Pavlidis took advantage of space inside the penalty area with a good finish.

From BBC

However, when the surprises drop in October - think Trump’s Access Hollywood tape or Hillary Clinton’s emails in 2016 - there is scarcely time left to recover or regain momentum after a misstep or bad news cycle.

From BBC

While the former first lady has been scarcely seen in public as of late, she remains a vital campaign operative as Trump struggles to garner the support of women voters in the 2024 elections.

From Salon

Related Words

• hardly
• rarely
• seldom