Words / B1

d-uh-REKTL-ee/dəˈrektli/

Directly means with nothing in between, or immediately, or frankly: write directly to; directly after; ask directly. Direct is the adjective/verb (already in the dictionary). Straight is everyday for direction. Do not mix with director. Complaints: contact the board directly.

Meaning

With nothing in between; also immediately; also in a frank way.

Examples

• “Write directly to the exam board if the script is missing.”
• “She asked directly whether the shift was unpaid, which is the frank sense.”

Good to know

directly to + person; directly after. Adjective: direct. Everyday: straight. Senses: no go-between / immediately / frankly. Mix-up: director.

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