faintly
/ˈfeɪntli/
ADVERB
1. In a weak or barely perceptible way
To a slight degree or with such little intensity that something is difficult to see, hear, smell, or otherwise perceive clearly.
1.1. Barely visible or distinguishable
Used when light, colors, shapes, or other visual features can be seen only weakly or indistinctly.
Synonyms
Antonyms
- clearly
- distinctly
- brightly
- vividly
Examples
- The stars shone faintly through the clouds.
- A distant mountain was faintly visible on the horizon.
Related Words
- obscurely
- hazily
- blurred
1.2. Quietly or in a weak voice
Used when someone speaks or makes a sound with very little volume or strength, making it difficult to hear.
Synonyms
Antonyms
- loudly
- audibly
- forcefully
Examples
- She smiled and answered faintly.
- Someone was calling for help faintly from the other side of the building.
Related Words
- inaudibly
- murmuring
- whispering
1.3. Slightly or to a small degree
Used to indicate that a quality, sensation, smell, taste, or impression is present only to a limited extent.
Synonyms
Antonyms
- strongly
- intensely
- considerably
- greatly
Examples
- The room smelled faintly of jasmine.
- The fabric was faintly blue under the natural light.
Related Words
- subtly
- marginally
- minimally
1.4. Gently or delicately
Used to describe an action or expression performed with little force, intensity, or assertiveness.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Examples
- She smiled faintly as she remembered the conversation.
- He touched the old photograph faintly with his fingertips.
Related Words
- tenderly
- mildly
- timidly