rarely
English
Etymology
Pronunciation
- Lua error in Module:parameters at line 95: Parameter 1 should be a valid language or etymology language code; the value "UK" is not valid. See WT:LOL and WT:LOL/E. IPA(key): /ˈɹɛːli/
Audio (US) (file)
Adverb
rarely (comparative rarelier or more rarely, superlative rareliest or most rarely)
- Not occurring at a regular interval; seldom; not often. [from 16th c.]
- We rarely go to the theatre.
- Rarely do you ever find an eagle this far up the river.
- Unusually well; excellently. [from 16th c.]
- To a rare degree; very. [from 16th c.]
Usage notes
It is grammatically a negative word. It therefore collocates with ever rather than never.
- Compare We rarely ever go to the theatre. with We almost never go to the theatre.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Translations
not occurring at a regular interval
|
unusually well
|
to a rare degree
|
References
- “rarely”, in The Century Dictionary […], New York, N.Y.: The Century Co., 1911, →OCLC.
- “rarely”, in Webster’s Revised Unabridged Dictionary, Springfield, Mass.: G. & C. Merriam, 1913, →OCLC.