What does naturally mean?
Naturally is an adverb with several closely related meanings. At its core, it describes something that happens in accordance with nature, natural laws, or ordinary processes: plants naturally grow toward light, for example. It can also describe behavior that is spontaneous, effortless, or unaffected, as in “She naturally took charge of the situation.” In informal and conversational writing, naturally is often used to introduce something that follows logically or is widely expected: “Naturally, the weather improved once the storm passed.” The word is common in both British and American English and generally carries a neutral, positive tone, although its use can suggest spontaneity or inevitability. It appears in technical, scientific, and academic writing, especially in expressions such as “naturally occurring” and “naturally derived,” while remaining equally suitable for everyday conversation. Because it can shift between describing natural processes and indicating what is expected, naturally is a flexible word for expressing both method and consequence.
adverbIn accordance with nature or natural processes; in a spontaneous, unaffected, or typical manner. It can also mean as expected or inevitably.
- In accordance with nature, natural laws, or characteristic natural processes.
- In a spontaneous, effortless, unaffected, or instinctive manner.
- As would be expected; inevitably; without surprise.
"The flowers naturally bloom in early spring."
"The river naturally divides the valley into two distinct regions."
"Naturally, everyone was curious about the unexpected discovery."
Naturally means both “in the way nature works” and “without trying too hard,” making it one of English’s most quietly versatile adverbs.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does naturally come from?
The adverb naturally developed in Middle English by adding -ly to natural. Natural comes through Old French natural from Latin naturalis, which was derived from natura, meaning “birth” or “origin,” and ultimately from the Latin verb nasci, “to be born.” The same Latin foundation also produced nature, naturalist, naturalism, and related words in English and other European languages.
Related word forms
How naturally is actually used
The adverb is generally neutral in register. In sentences such as “Naturally, …,” it can suggest that something is obvious, expected, or inevitable, and sometimes conveys a mildly confident or self-evident tone.
Easily confused with naturally
Natural is an adjective describing something connected with nature or ordinary human behavior, while naturally is an adverb describing how an action or result occurs.