Words / C1

NAYML-ee/ˈneɪmli/

Namely introduces the exact names or details of what you have just mentioned: three causes, namely X, Y, and Z. That is and i.e. are cousins; especially picks a highlight rather than a full list. Name is the everyday verb. Do not use namely to start a vague list you cannot finish.

Meaning

Used to introduce the exact names or details of what you have just mentioned.

Examples

• “Three labs failed the audit, namely chemistry, night pharmacy, and records.”
• “Two files were embargoed, namely the night-lab log and the raw CSV.”
• “Especially names a star example; namely is supposed to specify the set. That is can paraphrase; namely points at labels.”

Good to know

That is to say; to name them. Close: that is / i.e. Contrast: especially (a highlight, not a full roll-call). Not a waffle starter.

Near in meaning

specifically

New