duly

/ˈduːli/
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Properly or as expected, especially when an action follows a rule, duty, request, promise, or natural sequence.

Examples

  • All objections were duly recorded in the minutes.
  • She asked for a receipt, and the clerk duly provided one.
  • The contract was duly signed by both parties.
  • The award was announced, and the winner was duly applauded.
  • The team dominated the match and duly won by three goals.

Similar words

legally
validly
appropriately
rightly
predictably
properly
in due course
consequently
expectedly
properly

Meanings

In the proper or required way

adverb
law
formal
Done correctly, officially, or according to the rule or duty that applies.

Examples

  • The contract was duly signed by both parties.
  • The board was duly elected at the annual meeting.
  • All objections were duly recorded in the minutes.
  • The application was duly completed and filed.
  • The notice was duly served on the defendant.

Similar words

As expected or in due course

adverb
everyday
neutral
Happening in the expected way, often after a request, cause, promise, or natural build-up.

Examples

  • He promised to reply and duly sent an answer that afternoon.
  • The team dominated the match and duly won by three goals.
  • She asked for a receipt, and the clerk duly provided one.
  • The alarm sounded, and everyone duly left the building.
  • The award was announced, and the winner was duly applauded.

Similar words

Etymology

From Middle English forms such as duweliche and duely, built from due and the adverb-forming ending -ly.

FAQ

What does duly mean?

Duly means properly, correctly, or as expected, especially when something is done as required.

Is duly a formal word?

Yes. Duly is common in formal, legal, business, and official writing, though it can also appear in polished narration.

What does duly signed mean?

Duly signed means signed in the proper way, with the authority or procedure required for the document.

What is the difference between duly and dully?

Duly means properly or as expected. Dully means in a dull, boring, or muted way.

Can duly mean on time?

Yes, but usually as part of the broader idea of something happening when expected or in due course.

What are synonyms of duly?

Useful synonyms include properly, correctly, appropriately, legally, accordingly, and in due course.

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