Meaning & use

firmly

adverb·Everyday

In a way that is steady, secure, or determined and not easily shaken or changed.

See it in a sentence

She firmly refused to change her decision despite the pressure from her colleagues.

Make sure the ladder is firmly planted on level ground before you climb it.

A note on using this word

Firmly can describe either a physical state, like a secure grip, or a mental one, like a resolute decision.

Words with a similar meaning

securelyresolutely

Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.

Words with an opposite meaning

looselyhesitantly

Make it your own

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