namely

Namely is an English adverb used to introduce specific details that clarify or name items mentioned in a preceding general statement. It signals that what follows is a precise identification of the elements being discussed, often by listing them or specifying a particular meaning.

In use, namely typically appears after a clause or noun phrase and is often preceded by a comma: for example, “There are two reasons, namely cost and timing.” It can introduce a short list or a single item. The construction is common in formal writing and is sometimes preferred when the speaker or author intends to define exactly what is meant, rather than merely giving examples.

Namely is related to, but distinct from, i.e. and e.g. i.e. means “that is” or “in other words,” used to restate or clarify. e.g. means “for example,” introducing non-exhaustive illustrations. Namely, by contrast, implies a precise identification or enumeration of the specific elements intended.

The word derives from the noun name plus the adverbial suffix -ly, and it has been part of English since the Middle English period. It remains a formal, somewhat precise term, appropriate for technical or analytic writing where exact identification of elements is required.

In summary, namely signals that what follows is a specific, often exhaustive, clarification of what was stated before, distinguishing it from more general or illustrative phrases.