Grandly
What it means
In an impressive, dignified, or ceremoniously ambitious manner.
Reach for it when describing scale or presentation while allowing for a hint of theatrical excess
The old staircase rises grandly through the center of the hall.
Words to choose between 6
| playful | |
|---|---|
| warm | |
| professional | |
| formal | |
| literary |
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playful
with a flourish
Fits when a theatrical finishing gesture is intentionally part of the charm
Careful A flourish is brief and may look showy rather than dignified.
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warm
Fits when excellent execution or bright beauty is the point
Careful Splendidly can praise a small result that is not grand in scale.
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professional
Fits when observable quality or scale earns respect
Careful Impressively is more measured and lacks ceremonial grandeur.
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formal
ceremoniously
Fits when ritual formality shapes how the action occurs
Careful Ceremony can be modest and does not itself make something grand.
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formal
Fits when dignified scale or motion inspires awe
Careful Majestically is too solemn for cheerful display or ambitious speech.
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literary
Fits when exceptional splendor is genuinely visible
Careful Magnificently is emphatic and can make ordinary good design sound inflated.
Opposites 3
- modestly
- plainly
- shabbily
Common phrases 3
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rise grandly
Stone arches rise grandly above the quiet reading room.
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grandly announced
The plan was grandly announced before its maintenance budget existed.
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grandly proportioned
The grandly proportioned windows bring winter light deep into the hall.
Word family 1
Usage notes
Keep in mind
Grandly can carry irony when manner exceeds substance. Context should make sincere praise clear.
Definitions and examples are written for this site. How words are chosen Updated