solemnly
gb/sˈɑləmli/ us/sˈɑləmli/
B2
English
~ 4300
Senses
0 senses
adverb
formal
B2
property
1
In a serious, respectful way
In a way that shows you are very serious and respectful.
Usage pattern:
to [verb] solemnly
Common mistake:
Learners sometimes confuse 'solemnly' with 'quietly', but 'solemnly' refers to seriousness, not just low volume.
Synonyms
gravely (Slightly more formal and can suggest severity or concern.)
|
seriously (More common and general; may lack the respectful tone of 'solemnly'.)
Antonyms
lightheartedly (Shows a cheerful, carefree manner, opposite of seriousness.)
|
casually (Lacking the formality or deep respect implied by 'solemnly'.)
Collocations
solemnly swear
|solemnly declare
|solemnly promise
|solemnly nod
|solemnly state
Themes
emotions
|communication
|social_interaction
|core_vocabulary
Examples
- He solemnly swore to tell the truth before the court.
- The president solemnly addressed the nation after the tragedy.
- She looked at him solemnly before giving her answer.
- They stood solemnly as the names of the fallen were read.
- He solemnly promised to protect her secrets.
Learner examples
- She solemnly said she would help.
- He solemnly promised to be there.
- They solemnly listened to the speech.
- I solemnly told him the truth.
- We solemnly agreed to the plan.
Grammar
Dictionary form
solemnly
IPA
GB/sˈɑləmli/
US/sˈɑləmli/
Syllables & stress
sol - emnly (2 syllables)
Stress on 1st syllable (sol)
Word forms
Noun
- Base: solemnly
- Plural: solemnlies
Word family
Expressions
I solemnly swear
1/ˈaɪ sˈɑləmli swˈɛɹ/
fixed phrase
formal
Make a serious promise or oath
Used to say you are making a very serious promise or statement.
Examples
- I solemnly swear that I will not repeat what you told me.
- Standing before the judge, he said, 'I solemnly swear to tell the truth.'
swear solemnly
1/swˈɛɹ sˈɑləmli/
fixed phrase
formal
Take an oath seriously
To make a formal promise in a very serious way.
Examples
- Witnesses must swear solemnly before giving testimony.
- He swore solemnly never to harm anyone again.