Words / B1

KYNDL-ee/ˈkaɪndli/

Kindly means in a kind way, and in formal letters it means please: Kindly return the form. Kind is the adjective (already in the dictionary). Please is everyday; would you mind is softer. Do not use kindly as a sarcastic “hurry up” in exam writing. Exams office: kindly return the form by Friday.

Meaning

In a kind way; also a polite formal request (kindly + verb).

Examples

• “Kindly return the form to the exams office by Friday.”
• “She spoke kindly to the relatives, which is the manner sense, not a command.”

Good to know

Formal request: Kindly + verb. Manner: speak kindly. Adjective: kind. Everyday request: please. Letters / exams office.

Near in meaning

please

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