Meaning
Secondly is an adverb used to introduce the second point, reason, or item in a sequence, list, or argument. It helps organize thoughts clearly, especially in writing or speeches.
Pronunciation
The word is pronounced with stress on the first syllable. In General American English: /ˈsɛk.ənd.li/ (SEK-uhnd-lee). In Received Pronunciation (British English): /ˈsɛk.ənd.li/ (SEK-uhnd-lee). The “c” sounds like /k/, and the “e” in the first syllable is short.
Etymology and Morphology
Secondly derives from the adjective “second” (meaning the one after the first) combined with the adverbial suffix “-ly,” which turns adjectives into adverbs. This formation is common in English for creating adverbs of manner or order, like “firstly” or “thirdly.” Alternative forms include “2ndly” or the obsolete “2dly” and “2ᵈˡʸ.”
Grammar Notes
As an adverb, secondly is not comparable—it doesn’t have forms like “more secondly” or “most secondly.” It functions as a transitional word in sentences, often at the beginning or after a comma, to connect ideas in enumerations. It’s formal and best for written or spoken discourse rather than casual conversation.
Synonyms, Antonyms, and Common Combinations
- Synonyms: Second (more concise and common in informal speech), next, in the second place.
- Antonyms: Firstly (for the first point), lastly (for the final point). These aren’t true opposites but form part of sequencing.
- Common combinations: Firstly… secondly… thirdly (in lists); Secondly, however… (introducing contrast); Secondly, we must address…
Examples
- Simple sentence: Secondly, turn off the lights.
- Medium sentence: We need more time; secondly, the team is short-staffed.
- Complex sentence: Although the initial proposal was promising, secondly, it overlooked environmental impacts, which could lead to long-term consequences for the community.
Interesting Facts
In English rhetoric, secondly pairs with “firstly” and “thirdly” in the style of classical oratory, influenced by ancient Greek and Roman structures. Interestingly, some style guides prefer “first” over “firstly” for parallelism, but “secondly” is more standard than “second” to avoid repetition with numbers. An anagram of “secondly” is “condyles,” which refers to bone projections— a fun word puzzle!
Cultural or Contextual Features
Secondly shines in academic essays, debates, and formal presentations, reflecting English’s emphasis on logical structure (e.g., in IELTS or TOEFL writing tasks). In multicultural contexts, non-native speakers might overuse it in lists, but it’s valued for clarity in business meetings or legal arguments across English-speaking countries like the US, UK, and Australia.
Tips on How to Learn It Easier
Associate secondly with everyday lists: when making shopping lists or planning your day, mentally add “firstly” and “secondly” to items. Practice by outlining arguments in your native language first, then translating transitions. Listen to TED Talks or podcasts for natural usage—note how speakers pause after “secondly” for emphasis.
Mini-Tasks for the Student
- Make a sentence: Write three sentences using “firstly,” “secondly,” and “thirdly” about your favorite hobby.
- Find a synonym: Replace “secondly” in this sentence with a synonym—”Secondly, the movie was exciting”—and explain why it works.
- Word play: Create a short dialogue between two friends planning a trip, incorporating “secondly” naturally.