B2adverbrelationshipshome
US/ˈdʒent.li/
UK/ˈdʒent.li/
in a soft, calm and careful way, without using force
In context
She gently woke the baby and gave him his milk.
Stir the soup gently so the tofu doesn't break.
The path rises gently towards the temple on the hill.
Words that go with gently
adverb + verb
- gently pushHe gently pushed the door open.
- gently remindCould you gently remind him about the meeting?
- gently but firmlyThe teacher spoke gently but firmly to the noisy class.
verb + adverb
- smile gentlyThe old monk smiled gently at the children.
- speak gentlySpeak gently to the cat so it doesn't run away.
adverb + adjective
- gently slopingThe tea farm is on gently sloping hills.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
Please speak gentle to the children.Correct: Please speak gently to the children.