What is openly? Pronunciation and usage in English

openly means . Learn how to pronounce and use openly through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of openly

openlyadverb

/ˈəʊp(ə)nli/
Definition & pronunciation of openly

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "openly." It can be a tricky one for non-native speakers! Here's a breakdown:

1. Syllables:

The word "openly" has three syllables:

  • op (like "op" in "rope")
  • en (like "end")
  • ly (like "fly")

2. Sounds:

  • op: Pronounced with a short “o” sound – like in "hop."
  • en: Pronounced with a short “e” sound – like in "pen."
  • ly: This is the tricky part! It's pronounced like the word "fly." It's a single, quick syllable. Don't pronounce it like "ly" as in "lovely."

3. Putting it together:

Say it slowly: “Op-en-ly”

Then, speed it up a little: “Op-en-ly”

4. Tips for getting it right:

  • Stress: The stress is on the first syllable: “op-en-ly”
  • Don't over-elongate: The "en" and "ly" syllables should be relatively brief.
  • Practice: The best way to get it right is to listen to native speakers pronounce it and then repeat after them.

Resources for Hearing it:

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly for you one more time?
  • Give you some example sentences using “openly”?

Usage and examples with the word openly in English

Let's break down how to use the word "openly." It essentially means in a way that is clear, honest, and without hiding anything. Here's a breakdown with examples:

1. Meaning & Core Concept:

  • Core Meaning: To express something in a straightforward, honest, and visible way; without secrecy.
  • Emphasis: It’s about transparency and a lack of concealment.

2. How to Use It – Different Contexts:

  • Describing Actions/Behaviors: This is the most common use.

    • Example: “He spoke openly about his fears and anxieties.” (Meaning he didn't hide his fears; he shared them directly.)
    • Example: “The company decided to be openly transparent about its new policies.” (Meaning they made the policies clear and accessible, not secretive.)
    • Example: “She argued openly against the proposed changes.” (Meaning she didn't whisper or try to hide her disagreement – she stated it clearly.)
    • Example: "The politician answered questions openly and honestly." (He didn't dodge or avoid the questions.)

  • Describing Feelings/Thoughts:

    • Example: “He expressed his love for her openly.” (He showed his love in a clear and obvious way.)
    • Example: “She questioned his motives openly.” (She directly challenged his reasons.)

  • As an Adjective (describing a situation or characteristic):

    • Example: “They held an openly democratic meeting.” (Meaning the meeting was conducted in a way that encouraged participation and debate.)
    • Example: “The restaurant offered openly vegetarian options.” (Meaning they clearly listed vegetarian choices.)

3. Key Things to Remember:

  • Contrast with "secretly" or "coyly": “Openly” is the opposite of hiding something or deliberately being subtle.
  • It Implies Honesty: Using “openly” suggests the person or entity is being truthful.
  • It's Often Positive: Generally, being open is seen as a good thing – it builds trust and understanding.

4. Synonyms (Words with similar meanings):

  • Frankly
  • Directly
  • Honestly
  • Clearly
  • Without reservation
  • Transparently

5. Example Sentences Combining Different Uses:

  • "He was openly critical of the project, explaining his concerns frankly and without concealing his doubts."
  • “The organization operates openly, welcoming volunteers and sharing its mission transparently.”

To help me give you even more tailored advice, could you tell me:

  • What are you trying to write or say? (e.g., a story, an email, an essay?)
  • What specific context are you thinking of? (e.g., expressing opinions, describing a business practice, etc.)

Synonyms for the word openly

Practice with vocabulary openly

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The CEO decided to discuss the company's financial challenges ______ with all employees, hoping to foster trust and shared responsibility.
  2. During the panel discussion, Professor Lee ______ challenged the traditional economic theory, presenting compelling counter-arguments.
  3. The board committed to making all financial reports ______ available to the public, ensuring full accountability.
  4. She stated her concerns ______ during the meeting, leaving no room for misunderstanding about her position.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. The team leader encouraged everyone to express their opinions ______ during the brainstorming session to ensure all perspectives were considered. a) secretly b) cautiously c) openly d) privately e) freely

  2. After months of speculation, the celebrity finally declared their relationship ______ to the press. a) reluctantly b) ambiguously c) unequivocally d) openly e) privately

  3. The activist group decided to protest the new policy ______ in front of the parliament building to draw maximum attention. a) subtly b) discreetly c) openly d) covertly e) publicly

  4. To build trust with stakeholders, the organization opted to share all project updates ______, leaving no room for hidden agendas. a) obscurely b) secretly c) transparently d) vaguely e) confidentially

  5. When asked about the project's delays, the project manager spoke ______ about the unforeseen technical challenges. a) evasively b) hesitantly c) candidly d) cautiously e) indirectly

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. Original: The company decided to disclose all its environmental impact data without any concealment. Rewrite:

  2. Original: Despite potential criticism, the scientist ensured that her research findings were made available to the public without any restrictions. Rewrite:

  3. Original: The manager expressed his reservations about the project in a very direct and honest manner during the feedback session. Rewrite:

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. openly
  2. openly
  3. transparently
  4. frankly

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. c) openly, e) freely
  2. c) unequivocally, d) openly
  3. c) openly, e) publicly
  4. c) transparently
  5. c) candidly

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The company decided to openly disclose all its environmental impact data.
  2. The scientist openly made her research findings available to the public, despite potential criticism.
  3. The manager frankly expressed his reservations about the project during the feedback session.

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