What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
distinctly
Example
I distinctly remember telling you about the meeting. [distinctly: adverb]
Example
The sound of the church bells was distinctly audible from our house. [distinctly: adverb]
clearly
Example
She spoke clearly and confidently during the presentation. [clearly: adverb]
Example
The instructions were clearly written on the package. [clearly: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Clearly is more commonly used than distinctly in everyday language. Clearly is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while distinctly is less common and has a more specific usage.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between distinctly and clearly?
Distinctly can have a more formal or academic connotation, while clearly is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.