What does greatly mean?
Greatly is an adverb meaning to a great extent, very much, or by a large amount. It describes the degree of an action, effect, comparison, or feeling, as in “The agreement greatly reduced costs” or “She is greatly respected in her field.” The word often implies a noticeable or substantial change rather than a minor one, although it can also serve as a strong general intensifier before words such as appreciated, improve, or exceed. Greatly is used in both formal and informal English, with the greatest frequency in writing and formal speech. It is especially useful when the size of a difference matters: replacing it with very may preserve the basic meaning but remove the suggestion of significance. In everyday conversation, a more conversational alternative such as really or a lot may sometimes be preferred, depending on tone.
adverbTo a great extent; very much, often by a large amount.
- To a great extent; very much or by a large amount.
"The new treatment greatly improved the patient's condition."
"Her research greatly advanced our understanding of the disease."
"The audience greatly appreciated the speaker's thoughtful presentation."
The compact word greatly acts like a magnifying glass, turning a modest improvement into something that happens very much or by a large amount.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does greatly come from?
Greatly was formed in English by adding the adverbial suffix -ly to the adjective great. The adjective descends from Old English grēat, a Germanic word with ancient roots that are partly reconstructed; the suffix -ly comes from Old English līce, meaning “in the manner of.” The resulting form has long been used to express a large degree or extent, and related forms built from great include greatness and compounds such as great-grandfather.
How greatly is actually used
Greatly is common in formal and informal English, but it can sound emphatic or old-fashioned in contexts where simply or very would be more natural. It usually indicates a substantial degree or effect rather than a small one.
Easily confused with greatly
Great is an adjective describing something as large, important, or excellent, whereas greatly is an adverb describing the degree or extent of an action or quality.
Greatly means to a great extent, while gratefully means with thanks or appreciation.