What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
highly
Example
She is highly respected in her field of work. [highly: adverb]
Example
He is highly skilled in playing the guitar. [highly: adverb]
Example
I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves mystery novels. [highly: adverb]
extremely
Example
The weather was extremely hot and humid. [extremely: adverb]
Example
She was extremely happy to see her old friend again. [extremely: adverb]
Example
The company's profits have increased extremely over the past year. [extremely: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Extremely is more commonly used than highly in everyday language, as it is more versatile and can be used in various contexts. Highly is less common and is typically used in more formal or specialized contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between highly and extremely?
Highly is generally considered more formal than extremely, which is more commonly used in everyday language and informal contexts.