HARDLY Meaning and
Definition
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Hardly is an adverb that can have multiple meanings depending on the context in which it is used. It is derived from the word "hard" and represents the opposite of easy or effortlessly.
1. Scarcely or almost not: When used in this sense, "hardly" indicates something that occurs in a very limited or minimal manner. For example, "The student hardly studied for the exam" suggests that the student put in a minimal amount of effort towards studying.
2. With difficulty or exertion: In this sense, "hardly" describes a situation where someone accomplishes a task with great effort or struggle. For instance, "She hardly managed to lift the heavy box" implies that lifting the box was an arduous task for her.
3. Barely or by a small margin: "Hardly" can also denote a tiny amount or degree, often used to emphasize the lack of a certain quality. For example, "He hardly spoke a word during the entire meeting" suggests that the person spoke very little.
4. Definitely not or not at all: This usage of "hardly" implies a negation or contradiction. For instance, "He is hardly an expert in the field" suggests that the person lacks the required expertise.
Overall, "hardly" is an adverb that conveys notions of scarcity, difficulty, minimalism, or negation, depending on how it is used within a sentence or phrase.
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• Scarcely; barely; not quite.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for HARDLY *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for HARDLY
Etymology of HARDLY
The word "hardly" has its origin in the Old English word "heardlic", which is derived from the base word "heard", meaning "hard" or "difficult". Over time, the suffix "-lic" was added to create the adverb "heardlic", which later evolved into "hardly" in modern English.
Idioms with the word HARDLY
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I need hardly do sth
The idiom "I need hardly do something" means that there is a very small or almost no necessity to do a particular action because the outcome or result is already assured or inevitable without it. It implies that the action is not required or necessary due to the circumstances.
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hardly/scarcely etc. earthshattering
The definition of the idiom "hardly/scarcely etc. earthshattering" is:
Something that is hardly, scarcely, or barely earthshattering means it is not particularly impressive, important, or significant. It implies that an event, achievement, or occurrence is underwhelming or unremarkable in nature, lacking the power to make a significant impact or create a great change.
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hardly have time to breathe
The idiom "hardly have time to breathe" means being extremely busy or overwhelmed with tasks or responsibilities, to the point where one feels like they have no time for rest or relaxation.
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hardly have time to think
The idiom "hardly have time to think" means being extremely busy or occupied, to the extent that there is very little time for reflection, relaxation, or contemplation. It implies a constant state of busyness or being overwhelmed with tasks or responsibilities, leaving no room for a moment of calm or mental space.
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hardly earthshattering
The idiom "hardly earthshattering" is used to describe something that is not particularly surprising, significant, or groundbreaking. It implies that an event or information is rather mundane or unimpressive, lacking the ability to create a significant impact or change.
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(one) can hardly believe (one's) eyes
The idiom "(one) can hardly believe (one's) eyes" means that something is so surprising or unbelievable that it is difficult to accept or comprehend what is seen or witnessed. It implies astonishment or disbelief at what one is observing.
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can hardly hear (oneself) think
The idiom "can hardly hear (oneself) think" means that it is extremely noisy or chaotic, making it difficult to concentrate or think clearly. It suggests a situation where there is excessive noise or disturbance that hinders a person's ability to focus or have coherent thoughts.
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hardly earth-shattering
The idiom "hardly earth-shattering" refers to something that is not surprising or extraordinary; it implies that the event, news, or information is not significant or impactful enough to cause a major reaction or have a profound effect.
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hardly ever
The idiom "hardly ever" refers to something that happens very infrequently or almost never.
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it's hardly saying much
The idiom "it's hardly saying much" is used to convey that a particular statement or accomplishment is not significant or impressive. It implies that whatever is being referred to is not substantial, remarkable, or noteworthy in any notable way.
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that's hardly saying much
The idiom "that's hardly saying much" is used to convey a sense of disappointment or lack of significance regarding something that has been stated. It suggests that the accomplishment or quality being described is not impressive or noteworthy in comparison to others, often with an added notion of underwhelmment.
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can hardly wait, at can't wait
The idiom "can hardly wait" or "can't wait" means to be extremely excited or eager for something to happen or take place. It signifies a strong desire for an event, action, or outcome and implies impatience and anticipation.
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hardly dry behind the ears
The idiom "hardly dry behind the ears" is used to describe someone who is very young, inexperienced, or immature. It implies that the person is still wet behind the ears, suggesting that they are not yet fully developed or knowledgeable in a particular area.
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hardly/barely put one foot in front of the other
The idiom "hardly/barely put one foot in front of the other" means to walk or move with great difficulty, typically due to extreme exhaustion, physical weakness, or emotional distress. It implies a state of being barely able to continue or make progress.
Similar spelling words for HARDLY
- hardliner,
- hardy,
- hardel,
- hartl,
- hardly a,
- hardline,
- hairtail,
- hard,
- hard lead,
- hard-line,
- hurdle,
- hard line.
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