beautifully

Beautifully is an English adverb that describes the manner in which an action is performed or the degree to which a quality is present. It most often modifies a verb, as in “The choir sang beautifully,” but it can also modify adjectives or other adverbs, as in “a beautifully simple design” and “the plan unfolded beautifully.” In some cases it can function as a sentence adverb to express evaluation, though this use is less common in formal writing.

Formation and etymology: The adverb is formed by adding the suffix -ly to the adjective beautiful. The adjective itself derives from the noun beauty with the suffix -ful, and through various historical stages from Old French beaute to Latin roots associated with beauty. The exact lineage is complex, but today beautifully is a standard adverb used to indicate grace, skill, or aesthetic quality in the manner of an action.

Usage notes: Beautifully conveys a positive appraisal of aesthetics, execution, or eloquence. It is commonly employed to praise craftsmanship, writing, design, or performance. In some contexts, especially when overused, it can feel inflated or cliché, so more precise or restrained wording may be preferable in formal or critical writing. It can also be used ironic­ally to modify a negatively framed action for contrast, though this tone depends on context.

See also: adverb, -ly suffix, beautiful, beauty, beautify.