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

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