# tenderly

**Pronunciation:** /ˈtendərli/ · TEN-der-lee

**CEFR level:** B2

**Part of speech:** adverb

## Meaning

In a way that is gentle, loving, or kind, often showing care for someone or something that is weak or needs protection.

## Examples

- He stroked her hair tenderly.
- She spoke tenderly to the frightened animal.
- The chef prepared the delicate fish tenderly.

## Synonyms

- gently — General softness and lack of force.
- lovingly — Showing affection and deep care.
- affectionately — With warmth and fondness.
- delicately — With extreme care due to fragility.

## Antonyms

- harshly — In a cruel or severe manner.
- roughly — Without care or gentleness.
- cruelly — In a way that causes pain or suffering.

## Common patterns

- tenderly + verb — Describes how an action is performed with gentleness and care. — He kissed her tenderly.

## Collocations

- touch tenderly — He touched her cheek tenderly.
- speak tenderly — She spoke tenderly to her grandmother.
- hold tenderly — The mother held the baby tenderly.

Canonical URL: https://anaversity.com/dictionary/english/tenderly

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