calmly
/'kɑ:mli/
Definition
- Adverb:
- In a sedate, peaceful, or tranquil manner: Describes an action performed without agitation, disturbance, or strong emotion.
- With self-possession and composure: Describes maintaining a steady, controlled, and unruffled state of mind, especially in stressful or exciting situations.
Usage
The adverb "calmly" is used to modify a verb, describing how an action is performed. It indicates that the action is done in a peaceful, controlled, and untroubled way. - It typically precedes or follows the verb it modifies. - It is often used to describe behavior in contrast to a situation that might provoke anxiety, anger, or haste.
Examples
Modifying a verb:
- She calmly explained the complex procedure to the nervous patient.
- Despite the loud noises outside, the baby slept calmly.
- "We will find a solution," he said calmly.
In contrast to a stressful context:
- While everyone else panicked, the firefighter calmly directed people to the exits.
- The pilot calmly addressed the passengers after the engine warning light came on.
Advanced Usage
"To take something calmly": To react to news, especially bad news, without becoming upset or agitated.
- He took the criticism calmly and used it to improve his work.
Used for emphasis on composure:
- She calmly and deliberately placed the documents on the table, refusing to be rushed.
Variants and Related Words
- Calm (adjective): Not showing or feeling nervousness, anger, or other strong emotions.
- She remained calm during the crisis.
- Calm (verb): To make someone or something quiet and relaxed.
- She tried to calm the frightened child.
- Calmness (noun): The state or quality of being calm.
- Her calmness under pressure was admirable.
Synonyms
- Composedly: In a calm and controlled manner.
- Placidly: In a not easily upset or excited manner.
- Serenely: In a calm, peaceful, and untroubled manner.
- Tranquilly: In a free from disturbance or turmoil manner.
Antonyms
- Agitatedly: In a troubled or nervous way.
- Frantically: In a hurried, excited, or chaotic manner.
- Hysterically: In an uncontrolled, extreme, or emotional way.
Related Phrases and Idioms
- To keep/stay calm: To maintain a calm state.
- The key is to keep calm and think logically.
- The calm before the storm: A period of quiet before a period of great activity or trouble.
- The office was quiet, but it felt like the calm before the storm of the product launch.
Adverb
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in a sedate manner
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with self-possession (especially in times of stress)
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he spoke calmly to the rioting students
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