directly

Meanings

1. 1
   adv

   without deviation

   the path leads directly to the lake

2. 2
   adv

   without anyone or anything intervening

   these two factors are directly related

3. 3
   adv

   In a direct manner; in a straight line or course.

   He drove directly to the office, and didn't stop off at the petrol station.

4. 4
   adv

   In a straightforward way; without anything intervening; not by secondary but by direct means.

   I'm sick of asking you to fire him; I'll just do it directly.

5. 5
   adv

   Plainly, without circumlocution or ambiguity; absolutely; in express terms.

   I'm going to tell Natalie directly that I love her.

6. 6
   adv

   Exactly; just; at the shortest possible distance.

   It's directly across the street.

7. 7
   adv

   Straightforwardly; honestly.

   He told me directly that he'd cheated on me, and how sorry he was for it.

8. 8
   adv

   Soon; next; in due time; as soon as it becomes convenient.

   We'll go to the store directly, but first I need to finish sweeping.

Etymology

From direct + -ly.