What is steadily? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of steadily

steadilyadverb

/ˈstɛdɪli/
Definition & pronunciation of steadily

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "steadily" in English. It's a tricky one for many learners! Here's a breakdown of the sounds and a few ways to approach it:

1. Syllable Breakdown:

  • stead: (st-ed) – This part is relatively straightforward.
  • -ly: This is the adverbial ending, and where most people stumble.

2. Pronunciation Breakdown:

  • "st" in "stead": Pronounce this as a single, short "st" sound, like in the word "stop."
  • "ed": This is the past tense of the verb "to be." It's pronounced as "d" (rhymes with "bed"). Don't say "id."
  • "-ly": This is the key. It’s pronounced "lee" (like the letter “L”).

3. Putting it Together:

Say it slowly: “st-ed-lee”

4. A more fluid version (what a native speaker would usually say):

It flows together a bit more naturally: "stid-lee". This is the most common and recommended pronunciation. The ‘d’ sound blends into the ‘l’ sound.

5. Resources for Hearing it:

  • Google Translate: Type "steadily" into Google Translate and click the speaker icon. (This is a good starting point!)
  • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/%C3%A7steadily/ - Forvo is a website where native speakers record pronunciations. Listen to multiple versions to get a feel for the variability.
  • YouTube: Search YouTube for "how to pronounce steadily" – you'll find many helpful videos.

Tips for practicing:

  • Slow down: Don't rush. Focus on each syllable.
  • Record yourself: Record yourself saying "steadily" and compare it to a native speaker's pronunciation.
  • Focus on the “lee” sound: This is the most common error. Practice saying "lee" repeatedly.

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

  • Are you a beginner, intermediate, or advanced English speaker?

Usage and examples with the word steadily in English

Let's break down how to use the word "steadily" in English. It's a great word that adds a sense of consistency and stability to your writing and speech.

1. Core Meaning:

"Steadily" means in a consistent and regular manner; without wavering or changing direction. It suggests a slow, firm, and persistent movement or progress.

2. How to Use It – Common Constructions:

Here's how you typically use "steadily," with examples:

  • With Verbs of Movement: This is the most frequent use.

    • "He climbed steadily up the ladder." (He didn’t slip or stop.)
    • "The ship sailed steadily through the storm." (It maintained a consistent course.)
    • "She walked steadily towards the door." (Without hesitating or changing pace.)
    • "The runner gained steadily on his competitor." (He was getting closer consistently, not in sudden bursts.)

  • With Verbs of Progress or Growth:

    • "The company's profits grew steadily over the past five years." (A consistent and predictable increase.)
    • "His confidence grew steadily with each successful presentation." (Building up slowly and surely.)
    • "The seedlings steadily developed roots." (Developing consistently over time.)

  • With Adjectives Describing a State:

    • "He sat steadily in his chair, watching the rain." (Remaining firmly seated.)
    • "She held the baby steadily in her arms." (Maintaining a firm, secure grip.)
    • "The flames burned steadily." (Consistently and without flickering.)

3. Key Considerations & Nuances:

  • Emphasis on Consistency: "Steadily" is always about consistency. If something fluctuates or changes, you'd use a different word (e.g., "gradually," "slowly," "regularly").

  • Implied Persistence: It suggests an underlying determination or effort. It's not just moving – it’s moving without stopping.

  • Can be used with "more and more": “His understanding of the subject grew more and more steadily.”

4. Synonyms (Words with similar meanings):

  • Regularly
  • Consistently
  • Slowly
  • Firmly
  • Steadfastly
  • Methodically

5. Examples in Sentences (To illustrate the various uses):

  • "The candle burned steadily throughout the night."
  • "The river flowed steadily towards the sea."
  • "She read steadily through the long report."
  • “He steadily practiced the piano scales.”
  • “The old house stood steadily against the wind.”

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

  • What kind of context are you using "steadily" in? (e.g., describing a physical action, a process of growth, a character’s emotions, etc.)
  • Can you provide a sentence where you’re trying to use “steadily” that you'd like feedback on?

Synonyms for the word steadily

Practice with vocabulary steadily

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The company's profits have been increasing __________ over the past quarter, showing stable growth.
  2. Despite initial challenges, the project team worked __________ towards their goal, meeting all deadlines.
  3. The report highlighted that the average temperature has risen __________ by two degrees over the last century.
  4. To ensure the structure's stability, the foundation must be laid __________ on solid ground.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer (There may be multiple correct answers per question)

  1. After the initial public offering, the value of the startup's shares began to climb __________. a) abruptly b) erratically c) steadily d) violently e) sporadically

  2. To maintain a healthy lifestyle, one should engage in physical activity __________ rather than attempting intense, short-term routines. a) periodically b) rapidly c) steadily d) inconsistently e) abruptly

  3. The public speaker delivered her message __________, ensuring every word was clear and understandable, even in the large auditorium. a) shakily b) unreliably c) quickly d) steadily e) falteringly

  4. Due to the sudden market downturn, the company decided to __________ reduce its workforce rather than lay off everyone at once. a) abruptly b) suddenly c) sporadically d) gradually e) immediately

  5. Project managers are expected to communicate updates to stakeholders __________ to build trust and ensure everyone is informed. a) infrequently b) occasionally c) consistently d) rarely e) sporadically

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. Original: The team worked at a constant pace without stopping, and eventually completed the complex task. Rewrite using "steadily": The team worked __________ and eventually completed the complex task.

  2. Original: Over time, the quality of their customer service improved in a continuous and stable manner. Rewrite using "steadily": The quality of their customer service improved __________ over time.

  3. Original: For effective learning, it is important to review material often and regularly. Rewrite without "steadily" but using a suitable replacement: For effective learning, it is important to review material __________.

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. steadily
  2. steadily
  3. gradually
  4. firmly

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. c) steadily
  2. c) steadily
  3. d) steadily
  4. d) gradually
  5. c) consistently

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The team worked steadily and eventually completed the complex task.
  2. The quality of their customer service improved steadily over time.
  3. For effective learning, it is important to review material consistently.

Comment ()