humbly
in a modest, unproud way
In a way that is not proud, and that shows you do not think you are very important or special.
[someone] humbly [verb]s [about something]
- She spoke humbly about her achievements, giving most of the credit to her team.
- I humbly accept this award on behalf of everyone who worked on the project.
- He humbly admitted that he still had a lot to learn.
- The scientist humbly acknowledged the help of her colleagues in her speech.
- In his letter, he humbly apologized for his earlier comments.
- He humbly says that he is not the best player.
- I humbly accept your kind offer.
- She humbly admits that she made a mistake.
- The winner humbly thanks the other players.
- They humbly say that they were just lucky.
in a low, submissive way
In a way that shows you are below another person and are ready to obey or serve them.
[someone] [verb]s humbly before [someone]
- The servant bowed humbly before the queen.
- He knelt humbly at the altar, his head lowered.
- They humbly obeyed the general’s commands without question.
- She stood humbly to one side while the officials spoke.
- The villagers waited humbly at the gate until they were called inside.
- The boy bowed humbly to the teacher.
- She knelt humbly in front of the king.
- They humbly followed the leader into the room.
- He asked humbly for food and water.
- The workers stood humbly while the boss spoke.
- Base: humbly
- Plural: humblies
I humbly accept
1accept something in a modest way
A formal way to say that you agree to take something, such as a prize, job, or offer, while showing that you are not proud.
- I humbly accept this award and thank everyone who supported me.
- On behalf of my team, I humbly accept your generous donation.
I humbly apologize
1make a very modest apology
A very polite and formal way to say that you are very sorry and do not feel important.
- I humbly apologize for any confusion my earlier email may have caused.
- On behalf of the company, I humbly apologize for the delay in responding to your request.
I humbly submit
1present an argument modestly
A very formal way to introduce your opinion or argument, especially in writing or in court, to show respect and lack of pride.
- I humbly submit that the evidence supports our client’s innocence.
- With these points in mind, I humbly submit that the proposal should be reconsidered.
I humbly suggest
1offer an idea modestly
A polite and formal way to give an idea or advice, while showing you do not think you know everything.
- I humbly suggest that we take a short break before continuing the meeting.
- If I may, I humbly suggest reviewing the data once more before making a decision.
walk humbly with your God
1live obediently and modestly before God
A religious phrase meaning to live your life in a way that is quiet, simple, and obedient to God, without pride.
- The verse calls people to do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with your God.
- She tried to walk humbly with your God, focusing on service rather than recognition.