The meaning of NEARLY is in a close manner or relationship. How to use nearly in a sentence.

We use almost and nearly to refer to the progress of things, especially if we are measuring and counting things. In these examples, almost and nearly can both be used: … I’ve nearly finished that book you …

Almost and nearly both mean 'not completely' or 'not quite'. They can be used in front of adjectives or noun phrases, or with verbs. Dinner is almost ready. We're nearly ready now. I spent almost a month …

Almost is typically used to suggest that something is approaching a certain point or level, but is not entirely reached. Nearly, while very similar in meaning, can convey a slight nuance of even closer …

Definition of nearly adverb in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

Nearly is used to indicate that something will soon be the case. It was already nearly eight o'clock. I was nearly asleep. The voyage is nearly over.

Oct 8, 2025 · nearly (comparative nearlier or more nearly, superlative nearliest or most nearly) He left a nearly full beer on the bar. I nearly didn't go to work yesterday. He was (so/very) nearly over the …

The word "nearly" comes from the Old English "nah," which means "near." It has been used in English for centuries to describe proximity, either in distance or time.

It's not nearly as expensive as I thought. There are not nearly enough jobs to go round. (Definition of nearly from the Cambridge Learner's Dictionary © Cambridge University Press)

We use almost and nearly to refer to the progress of things, especially if we are measuring and counting things. In these examples, almost and nearly can both be used: