What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
highly
Example
I highly respect my boss for his leadership skills. [highly: adverb]
Example
The book was highly recommended by my friend. [highly: adverb]
Example
She is highly skilled in computer programming. [highly: adverb]
very
Example
I am very happy to see you. [very: adverb]
Example
The cake is very sweet. [very: adverb]
Example
He is very precise in his work. [very: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Very is more commonly used than highly in everyday language. Very is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while highly is less common and is typically used in more formal situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between highly and very?
Highly is more formal than very, which is more commonly used in everyday language and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
