nearly
/ˈnɪəli/
Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.
Also seen as: nearlier · nearliest
Sense 1
Meaning · English
In close approximation; almost, virtually.
Adverb
Examples
He left a nearly full beer on the bar.
Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).
Sense 2
Meaning · English
With close relation; intimately.
Adverb
Examples
Let that which he learns next be nearly conjoined with what he knows already.
Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).
Common questions
What does “nearly” mean?
In close approximation; almost, virtually.
Is “nearly” formal or informal?
No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.