Basic Details
Word: Softly
Part of Speech: Adverb
Meaning: In a gentle or quiet manner.
Synonyms: Gently, quietly, tenderly
Antonyms: Harshly, loudly, roughly
Idioms and Phrases
- Softly spoken: Refers to someone who speaks in a gentle or quiet voice. Example: "Her softly spoken words made everyone feel at ease."
- Softly does it: Encouragement to do something carefully and with a gentle approach. Example: "As we approach the sleeping cat, remember softly does it!"
Usage Examples
Example 1: She sang softly, lulling the baby to sleep with her sweet melody.
Example 2: The wind blew softly through the trees, creating a calming sound.
Example 3: He softly placed the book on the table, making sure not to disturb anyone.
Fun Fact
Did you know that research shows that speaking softly can help to calm anxious animals? This is why many animal caregivers use a gentle tone when approaching frightened pets!
Famous Quote
"Sometimes the most important thing in a whole day is the rest we take between two deep breaths." Etty Hillesum
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "softly" mean?
a) In a loud manner
b) In a gentle or quiet manner
c) In a fast way
d) In a messy manner
Answer: b) In a gentle or quiet manner
2. Which of these is a synonym of "softly"?
a) Roughly
b) Loudly
c) Tenderly
d) Briskly
Answer: c) Tenderly
3. Which word is an antonym of "softly"?
a) Calmly
b) Harshly
c) Quietly
d) Gently
Answer: b) Harshly
4. Which sentence uses "softly" correctly?
a) She smiled softly as she read the book.
b) He ran softly down the stairs.
c) They shouted softly during the game.
d) The car moved softly on the road.
Answer: a) She smiled softly as she read the book.
5. Which idiom means to act gently or carefully?
a) Softly does it
b) Softly spoken
c) Soft touch
d) Soft as butter
Answer: a) Softly does it
