Definition of Hardly
Quick Meaning of Hardly
Almost not at all. Something barely happens or is barely true.
Detailed Definition of Hardly
almost not; scarcely; only just.
How to Pronounce Hardly
Stress pattern: Oo (2-syllable word).
Tip: Stress on first syllable. The 'd' is not pronounced loudly—it flows into 'ly'. /ˈhɑːrd-li/
Watch out: Students sometimes pronounce as /ˈhɑːrd-əl-i/ with 3 syllables; it is only 2 syllables.
How to Use Hardly in a Sentence
Each example shows “hardly” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“I hardly had time to eat breakfast this morning.”
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“There is hardly any milk left in the refrigerator.”
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“She hardly ever goes out on weekends because she works long hours.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Hardly
Common Synonyms for Hardly
Smart Synonyms for Hardly — When to Use Each
- scarcely
- When emphasis on near-zero quantity or occurrence is
- barely
- For emphasis that something just barely exists or
Antonyms of Hardly
Common Collocations with Hardly
These phrases pair with “hardly” in everyday English:
- hardly ever
- hardly any
- hardly anything
- hardly anyone
- can hardly believe
Common Mistakes When Using Hardly
Even fluent speakers slip up with “hardly”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: I hardly don't understand.
- ✓ Correct: I hardly understand.
- Why: Don't use double negatives. 'Hardly' already carries negative meaning.
- ✗ Wrong: She work hardly every day.
- ✓ Correct: She hardly works every day.
- Why: Third person singular needs -s on the verb. 'Hardly' modifies the verb, not the subject.
Words Confused With Hardly
Other Forms of Hardly
Frequently Asked Questions About Hardly
What is the meaning of "Hardly"?
Almost not at all. Something barely happens or is barely true.
How do you pronounce "Hardly"?
The IPA is /ˈhɑːrdli/. Stress on first syllable. The 'd' is not pronounced loudly—it flows into 'ly'. /ˈhɑːrd-li/
What part of speech is "Hardly"?
"Hardly" is an adverb at A2 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Hardly"?
Common synonyms include scarcely, barely, rarely.
How do you use "Hardly" in a sentence?
For example: "I hardly had time to eat breakfast this morning."