gently
/'dʤentli/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Adverb:
- With little weight or force; softly; lightly: Performing an action in a way that applies minimal pressure or impact.
- In a mild, kind, or tender manner; softly: Behaving or speaking with care, calmness, and consideration to avoid causing harm or distress.
- In a gradual or mild degree; not sharply or steeply: Changing or moving with a slight, smooth incline or intensity.
Examples of Usage
With little force: She closed the door gently to avoid waking the baby.Stir the mixture gently until the ingredients are combined.
In a mild or kind manner: The nurse spoke gently to the frightened child.He gently reminded her of their appointment.
In a gradual manner: The path rises gently toward the hill.The music faded out gently.
Advanced Usage
- "to put it gently": Used to introduce a statement that is an understatement or a more polite version of a harsh truth.
Variants and Related Words
- Gentle (adjective): Having or showing a mild, kind, or soft temperament or nature; not harsh or severe.
- Gentleness (noun): The quality of being gentle.
Synonyms
- Softly: In a quiet and gentle voice or manner.
- Lightly: With little weight or force.
- Tenderly: With gentleness, kindness, and affection.
- Gradually: In a slow, step-by-step manner.
Related Phrases
- Handle with care / Handle gently: Instructions to treat something delicately to avoid damage.
Adverb
- with little weight or force
- she kissed him lightly on the forehead
- in a gentle manner
- he talked gently to the injured animal
- in a gradual manner
- a gently sloping terrain