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Definition of expressly

expressly

/ɪkˈsprɛsli/
ex · press · ly
Adjective:express
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expressly Lexical Profile

expressly Game Scores & Validity

• adverb

1

In a direct, clear, and unmistakable manner; explicitly and unambiguously.

Example

"The lease agreement expressly forbids tenants from subletting the apartment without written consent."

2

For a particular, dedicated purpose or intention; specially.

Example

"This software program was designed expressly to help small businesses manage their inventory."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
View all antonyms for expressly

Word Nuance & Usage

'Expressly' means explicitly or for a specific purpose, not quickly; do not use it to mean 'rapidly' by association with an 'express train.'

• Nearby Words

expressive
expressively
expressiveness
expressly
expressway
expulsion
expunger

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in Middle English from the adjective 'express' (from Old French 'espres' and Latin 'expressus', meaning 'clearly presented' or 'pressed out') combined with the adverbial suffix '-ly'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Expressly. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/expressly
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