Meaning & use
firmly
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Meanings
adverb
In a strong, steady way that is not likely to move or change.
Grammar: Often used after verbs like hold, grip, or press to show physical steadiness.
Patterns
- hold something firmly
- grip something firmly
- press firmly on something
She held the railing firmly as she climbed the stairs.
He gripped the steering wheel firmly during the storm.
Press the button firmly until you hear a click.
adverb
In a way that shows strong belief or determination and is not easily changed.
Grammar: Common with verbs like believe, agree, or oppose to show a strong opinion.
Patterns
- believe firmly that
- firmly agree
- firmly oppose something
I firmly believe that honesty is the best policy.
The committee firmly opposed the new plan.
She said firmly that she would not change her mind.
Common combinations
- firmly established
- The company is now firmly established in the market.
- firmly rooted
- These traditions are firmly rooted in the community.
- firmly convinced
- He was firmly convinced of his own innocence.
- speak firmly
- She spoke firmly to show she was serious.
Synonyms and how they differ
- securely
- Focuses on being safe from danger or escape, while firmly emphasizes steadiness and strength.
- resolutely
- More formal and emphasizes a determined decision, whereas firmly can also describe physical grip.
- steadfastly
- Literary and suggests unwavering loyalty or commitment, while firmly is more general.
Opposites
Word family
Commonly confused: firmly or firm?
firmly vs firm
Firm is an adjective (a firm grip) or a noun (a business), while firmly is the adverb (hold firmly).
Practice
Choose the correct word: She held the rope ____ so it wouldn't slip.
Choose one answer.
The adverb 'firmly' describes how she held the rope. 'Firm' is an adjective and cannot modify the verb 'held'.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “firmly”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.