How Do You Spell OPENLY?

Pronunciation: [ˈə͡ʊpənli] (IPA)

The word "openly" is spelled with the letters o-p-e-n-l-y. However, its pronunciation isn't always intuitive. In the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA), it's transcribed as /ˈoʊpənli/. The o vowel sound is pronounced like the word "oh," while the e in "open" is unstressed and pronounced as a schwa sound (ə). The stress is on the second syllable, which is pronounced like the word "pen." So, the next time you come across "openly," remember to stress the "pen" and pronounce the "o" like "oh."

OPENLY Meaning and Definition

  1. Openly is defined as an adverb used to describe an action, behavior, or attitude that is transparent, honest, and without concealment. It implies the absence of secrecy, inhibition, or censorship, suggesting a willingness to express oneself freely and honestly, regardless of potential consequences or societal norms. When one behaves openly, they do not hide their true thoughts, beliefs, or emotions, choosing instead to reveal them openly to others, regardless of whether they are positive or negative.

    In a social context, openly often refers to the public display of affection between individuals of the same sex, particularly regarding romantic relationships. It indicates a lack of inhibition or fear in expressing affection for a same-sex partner in public, despite the potential for judgment or discrimination. The term is also used to describe individuals or communities that openly identify as members of a particular gender, sexual orientation, or marginalized group. In this context, it conveys a sense of pride, self-acceptance, and a refusal to conform to societal expectations.

    Businesses or organizations may also promote an open culture, which encourages transparent communication, feedback, and the sharing of ideas among employees. In this sense, "openly" refers to an environment where people feel comfortable expressing their opinions or concerns without fear of retribution or judgment.

    Overall, openly emphasizes honesty, authenticity, and the absence of secrecy or inhibition in various contexts, be it personal relationships, identity expression, or professional interactions.

  2. In public; not secretly.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Top Common Misspellings for OPENLY *

* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.

Other Common Misspellings for OPENLY

Etymology of OPENLY

The word "openly" originated from the combination of the Old English words "open" (meaning "not closed or sealed") and "lic" (meaning "manner" or "way"). "Open" can be traced back to the Old English word "opnian" or "opnian" which had similar meanings, derived from the Proto-Germanic word "*opano" (meaning "uncovered" or "unprotected"). The suffix "-ly" was added to "open" to form the adverb "openly" during the Middle English period. Overall, the etymology of "openly" suggests the idea of something being revealed or uncovered.

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