1
Core manner or degree
In an even, continuous, efficient, or trouble-free way, without abrupt interruption.
Example
The revised system operated smoothly during the trial.
smoothly
/ˈsmuːðli/ · SMOODH-leeadverb
In an even, continuous, efficient, or trouble-free way, without abrupt interruption.
Use smoothly to express this relationship precisely: in an even, continuous, efficient, or trouble-free way, without abrupt interruption.
What smoothly Really Means
The word becomes easier to use when its closely related senses are separated and compared.
2
Position and scope
Place this adverb where it clearly modifies the intended action, response, or degree.
Example
Negotiations proceeded smoothly after the dispute was resolved.
3
Analytical distinction
Choose it when this exact manner or intensity matters; nearby adverbs may change the writer's claim.
Example
The essay moves smoothly between its two main arguments.
Use smoothly Naturally
Notice how the surrounding noun or clause reveals the exact shade of meaning.
The revised system operated smoothly during the trial.
Negotiations proceeded smoothly after the dispute was resolved.
The essay moves smoothly between its two main arguments.
Precision Matters
Smoothly overlaps with several common words, but each carries a different emphasis.
smoothly
vs.Means in an even, continuous, efficient, or trouble-free way, without abrupt interruption.
inadvertently
Means without intention or awareness; accidentally.
smoothly
vs.Means in an even, continuous, efficient, or trouble-free way, without abrupt interruption.
beneficially
Means in a way that produces a helpful, favourable, or advantageous result.
smoothly
vs.Means in an even, continuous, efficient, or trouble-free way, without abrupt interruption.
erratic
Means unpredictable, irregular, or inconsistent.
smoothly
vs.Means in an even, continuous, efficient, or trouble-free way, without abrupt interruption.
chaotic
Means completely disordered, confused, unpredictable, or lacking effective organization.
Test smoothly in Context
The process operated without problems or interruptions.
1
After the software update fixed the recurring errors, the registration process ran ___.