lively
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /ˈlaɪvli/
KK: /ˈlaɪvli/
adjective
Definition
Full of energy and enthusiasm; active and spirited.
Example
The lively music made everyone want to dance.
Comparatives & Superlatives
Comparative: livelier
Superlative: lively
Conversation
I went to that new café downtown, and it had such a lively atmosphere.
Really? I’ve heard great things about it!
Yeah, the music was lively and everyone seemed to be having a good time.
Sounds like a fun place to hang out with friends!
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
animated
vibrant
spirited
Antonyms
dull
lifeless
lethargic
adverb
Definition
In a way that is full of energy and enthusiasm; with a lot of movement or activity.
Example
The children played lively in the park, running and laughing together.
Conversation
Are you ready to head to the park?
Yeah, I can’t wait to see everyone and have a lively time!
Let’s make sure we bring some games to keep things fun.
Root Explanation
**Lively** → It is formed from "live" (from Old English *libban*, meaning to be alive) and "-ly" (a suffix used to form adverbs and adjectives). The word "lively" means full of life or energy, describing someone or something that is vibrant and animated.
Memory Tip
Think of 'live' as being full of life, and the '-ly' just adds the quality of being that way. So, when you think of 'lively', imagine something that is bursting with energy and life.
Visually Confused Words
unlively
vively
lovely
likely
lily
elusively