Nearly

/ˈnɪrli/

Meaning & Definition

adverb

Very close to a particular condition.

It was nearly impossible to complete the task on time.

Almost, but not completely.

She was nearly late to the meeting.

Close to a certain amount or number.

He has nearly finished his homework.

In a way that is just short of, or almost.

They nearly won the championship last year.

Middle English nerly, from near + -ly

nearly there

Close to achieving something.

nearly everyone

Almost all people.

nearly the same

Very similar, but not identical.

near

At a short distance away.

nearness

The quality of being close.

nearly

Almost, or very close to something.

Nearly there

We're nearly there, just a few more steps!

Nearly done

I'm nearly done with my homework.