What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
quietly
Example
Please speak quietly in the library. [quietly: adverb]
Example
The cat crept quietly across the room. [quietly: adverb]
softly
Example
She sang softly to the baby to help her fall asleep. [softly: adverb]
Example
The petals of the flower felt softly against his skin. [softly: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Quietly and softly are both commonly used in everyday language, but quietly is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of contexts, while softly is more specific and often used in emotional or intimate situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between quietly and softly?
Both quietly and softly are considered neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
