What does validly mean?
Validly is an adverb meaning “in a valid manner,” most often used when something has been done according to the rules that make it legally, logically, or procedurally acceptable. Saying that a document was validly signed, for example, emphasizes not merely that a signature was present, but that it met the necessary formal requirements. In discussion of arguments, validly can indicate that reasoning is logically sound. The word is particularly useful in legal, administrative, academic, and formal argumentative contexts, where precision matters. In everyday conversation, a more natural alternative may sometimes be preferred, such as properly, correctly, or lawfully, depending on the intended emphasis. Validly is formed directly from the adjective valid and is therefore most natural when describing the manner or legitimacy of an action, decision, or piece of reasoning.
adverbIn a way that is valid; in accordance with accepted logical, legal, or procedural requirements.
- In a valid manner; in accordance with logical, legal, or procedural requirements.
"The amendment was validly passed after the required approval had been obtained."
"The contract was validly signed by both parties."
"She validly challenged the committee's decision on procedural grounds."
Validly is the precise word for saying that an action not only took place but met the rules required for it to count.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does validly come from?
Validly is the adverbial form of valid, created by adding the suffix -ly to an adjective. Valid comes through Old French from Latin validus, meaning strong, sound, or effective, ultimately from valere, “to be strong” or “to be worth.” English developed several related forms from this root, including validity, validate, and invalid, while Latin cognates include valor and valiant.
How validly is actually used
Validly is especially common in legal, formal, and argumentative contexts. It can refer to strict compliance with a rule or procedure, as well as to sound reasoning; its use may sound technical or emphatic in ordinary conversation.
Easily confused with validly
Valid describes a person, document, argument, or other entity that satisfies the relevant rules, while validly describes an action or manner of acting in accordance with those rules.