Definition

In a short amount of time; soon.

Example

The meeting will start shortly after lunch.

Conversation

I should be home shortly after work today.

That sounds good! What time do you finish?

I usually wrap up around five, so I’ll be there by six at the latest.

Perfect! We can grab dinner together then.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Shortly → It is formed from "short" (from Old English *sceort*, meaning brief or small in length) and "-ly" (meaning in a manner of). The word "shortly" means in a brief manner or for a short time.

Memory Tip

Think of something being 'brief' ('short') and done 'in a manner' ('-ly') — that's why shortly means to do something in a brief way.

Visually Confused Words