B1adverbfoodemotions
US/ˈlaɪt.li/
UK/ˈlaɪt.li/
with little force or weight; gently; or without treating something as serious
In context
She touched his arm lightly to get his attention.
Season the fish lightly with salt before putting it in the pan.
Don't take this warning lightly; the storm is very dangerous.
Words that go with lightly
verb + adverb
- take lightlyNobody should take this decision lightly.
- touch lightlyHe touched the screen lightly with one finger.
- tread lightlyTread lightly when you talk about politics here.
- sleep lightlyMy mother sleeps lightly and wakes at every noise.
adverb + adjective
- lightly saltedI prefer lightly salted butter.
- lightly toastedServe the soup with lightly toasted bread.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
She sleeps light.Correct: She sleeps lightly.