softly

Adverb

• used as a direction in music; to be played relatively softly

• with little weight or force
  • she kissed him lightly on the forehead
    

• in a manner that is pleasing to the senses
  • she smiled softly
    

• with low volume
  • speak softly but carry a big stick
    
  • she spoke quietly to the child
    
  • the radio was playing softly
    

Related words

• Synonyms: 
  piano , lightly , gently , quietly
• Antonyms: 
  forte , loudly , loud , aloud