How to pronounce clearly
Say it like KLEER-lee. Clearly has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (KLEER).
VoiceSpeed
US American/ˈklɪrli/KLEER-lee
UK British/ˈklɪəli/KLEER-lee
- KLEER
- lee
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Clearly pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- KLEERSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "i" in sit.
- leeKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the "ee" in see.
American vs British pronunciation of clearly
- Americans pronounce the r after a vowel; most British speakers leave it silent and lengthen the vowel instead.
British respelling: KLEER-lee.
What does clearly mean?
adverb
- In a clear manner.“He enunciated every syllable clearly.”
- Without a doubt; obviously.“Clearly, the judge erred in his opinion.”
- To a degree clearly discernible.“He was clearly wrong on all points but one.”
Where does clearly come from?
By surface analysis, clear + (adverbial) -ly.
Similar and opposite words
Similar meaning
Words that rhyme with clearly
Practicing rhymes is a quick way to lock in the vowel sound of clearly.
Questions about saying clearly
How do you pronounce clearly?
Say KLEER-lee. The American pronunciation is /ˈklɪrli/. In British English it is /ˈklɪəli/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in clearly?
Clearly has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (KLEER). Broken into parts: KLEER · lee.
Is clearly pronounced differently in British English?
Yes. Americans pronounce the r after a vowel; most British speakers leave it silent and lengthen the vowel instead. The British form is /ˈklɪəli/ (KLEER-lee).