The word "tardily" is spelled with the letter "t" followed by "a-r-d-i-l-y". In IPA phonetic transcription, the word would be spelled /ˈtɑːdɪli/. The "t" in the beginning is pronounced as a voiceless alveolar stop. The "a" sound is pronounced as a long vowel, followed by the "r" sound pronounced as an alveolar trill. The "d" is pronounced as a voiced alveolar stop, followed by a short vowel "i". Finally, the "ly" at the end is pronounced as /li/, with a long vowel "i".
Tardily is an adverb that describes an action or behavior being done in a slow, sluggish, or delayed manner. It primarily refers to the characteristic of being late or behind schedule, displaying a lack of promptness or ability to keep up with specified time requirements. This term can apply to physical movements or mental processes, as it reflects the pace at which an individual completes tasks or responses.
In a literal sense, tardily suggests a slowness in movement or progress, demonstrating a delay in reaching a particular destination or achieving a given goal. This could be seen as a quality of being sluggish, cautious, or hesitant in action. Moreover, it implies a lack of urgency or efficiency, often leading to a loss of time or missed opportunities.
In a figurative sense, tardily may describe a delay in thought or reasoning, indicating a slow mental processing speed. It can connote reluctance or complacency in decision-making or problem-solving, with a tendency to procrastinate or be indecisive. Additionally, this term can signify a lack of readiness or adaptation towards new ideas or changes in circumstances.
Overall, tardily characterizes actions or behaviors that occur at a slower pace than expected or required, showcasing a certain level of delay, sluggishness, or hesitancy.
Slowly.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word tardily is derived from the noun tardy. The etymology of tardy can be traced back to the Old French word tardif, which means late, behind time. This Old French word was formed from the Latin word tardus, meaning slow, sluggish. Over time, tardy evolved to function as both an adjective (meaning late, delayed) and an adverb (meaning late in doing something). Therefore, tardily takes its form from the adverbial usage of tardy and means in a late or delayed manner.