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Definition of intelligibly
intelligibly
/ɪnˈtɛl.ɪ.dʒə.bli/
in · tel · li · gi · bly
Adjective:intelligible
intelligibly Lexical Profile
CEFR
C1
Grade
10
Tier
2
Usage
Rare
Syllables
5
intelligibly Game Scores & Validity
Scrabble US
Scrabble UK
WWF
Wordle Guess
• adverb
1
In a manner that is clear enough to be easily understood or comprehended, especially regarding speech, writing, or complex concepts.
Example
"Despite the poor phone connection, the dispatcher managed to speak intelligibly enough to guide the caller through the emergency procedure."
Synonyms
View all synonyms for intelligibly Antonyms
View all antonyms for intelligiblyWord Nuance & Usage
Do not confuse 'intelligibly' (in a way that can be easily understood) with 'intelligently' (in a smart or clever manner); someone can speak intelligibly without speaking intelligently, and vice versa.
• Rhymes for intelligibly
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Formed in late Middle English from the adjective 'intelligible' (from Latin 'intelligibilis', from 'intellegere', meaning 'to understand') combined with the adverbial suffix '-ly'.
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Intelligibly. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/intelligibly