adverb
directly
Without an intervening step, delay, or change of direction.
This train takes passengers directly to the airport without transfers.
Etymology
Latin dirigere meant to straighten or guide. Directly applies the straight-course image to an action, extending it to an immediate result without an intervening step or delay.
More examples
- After school, Maya goes directly home without stopping.
- We buy our vegetables directly from a local farmer.
- You can send your questions directly to the manager.
Forms
directly · more directly · most directly
direct adjective — Proceeding without an intervening step or detour.
Similar words
- straight
- Emphasizes a path without turns, stops, or detours.
- immediately
- Emphasizes the absence of delay rather than intervening steps.