shortly

Shortly is an English adverb with two related meanings. Its dominant contemporary use is temporal: it means “in a short time” or “soon,” as in “The results will be available shortly.” It is especially common in announcements, schedules, formal writing, and professional communication, where it conveys that an event is expected without giving an exact time. Less commonly, shortly means “briefly” or “in a concise manner,” though this sense often appears in formal or literary contexts. The word is useful because its meaning combines the idea of a brief interval with the broader implication of an imminent or near future. In phrases such as “shortly before” and “shortly after,” it describes a relatively small interval between events. Although “shortly” can often be replaced by “soon,” its slightly more formal and measured tone makes it well suited to public notices and careful prose.

In a short time; soon. In a more formal or less common sense, briefly or concisely.

Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.

Where does shortly come from?

Shortly was formed in English from short and the adverbial suffix -ly. Its base word short continues Old English scort, meaning “short” or “brief,” while -ly is an English suffix that creates adverbs, often with meanings related to manner, degree, or time. The resulting adverb has long been used both for events occurring in a brief or near-future time and for something expressed briefly.

How shortly is actually used

The temporal sense is neutral in register and is often used in announcements, formal correspondence, and professional contexts. The concise sense is more formal and literary, while “shortly” meaning “soon” is sometimes considered less informal than “in a bit” or “in a moment.”

What's another word for shortly?

Words and phrases paired with shortly

What's the opposite of shortly?

Rhymes with shortly