Meaning & use
namely
Last updated
Used to introduce more precise or specific information about something just mentioned.
See it in a sentence
Two students were absent, namely Sarah and Tom.
The plan has one major flaw, namely its cost.
A note on using this word
Namely introduces a specific example or clarification and is typically followed directly by the item or items being named.
Words with a similar meaning
specificallythat is to say
Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “namely”, then compare your use with the examples above.
Your draft stays on this page and is not sent anywhere.