So, the question at hand is whether the correct term is “steadily” or “steadly.” Well, let’s not beat around the bush here – the correct term is indeed “steadily.” So, let’s dive into why this is the case and provide some examples to illustrate this point.
First of all, “steadily” is an adverb, while “steadly” is not even a recognized word in the English language. Adverbs are a crucial part of speech that modify verbs, adjectives, and other adverbs, giving us more information about how an action is performed. In this case, “steadily” modifies verbs to describe a consistent and unchanging manner of doing something.
For instance, if you were to say, “She walked steadily towards the finish line,” the adverb “steadily” tells us that her walking was consistent, without any sudden changes in speed or stride. It paints a picture of someone moving steadily towards their goal, with determination and focus.
On the other hand, if we were to use the non-existent word “steadly” in the same context, it would not convey the same meaning. Without the adverb “steadily,” the sentence would lose the precise descriptor of how she walked. The absence of this crucial adverb leaves us with a vague and incomplete sentence that fails to convey the intended message.
Let’s explore some more examples to further solidify our understanding. Consider the sentence, “He improved steadily in his studies.” Here, the adverb “steadily” emphasizes that his improvement was gradual, consistent, and without any sudden leaps or dips. It suggests a diligent and disciplined approach to his studies.
If we were to mistakenly use “steadly” in this sentence, it would simply sound odd and incorrect. It would be like trying to fit a square peg into a round hole – it just doesn’t fit. The absence of the proper adverb undermines the message and makes the sentence grammatically incorrect.
Now, you might be wondering why this matters. Well, clear and precise communication is vital in any form of writing, and particularly so in formal contexts like the IELTS exam. An incorrect usage of language can lead to confusion and misunderstanding, potentially affecting your score.
To summarize, “steadily” is the correct term, while “steadly” doesn’t even exist. As an adverb, “steadily” provides us with the necessary information to describe actions performed in a consistent and unchanging manner. Without this adverb, sentences become incomplete and lack the intended clarity. So, remember to choose your adverbs wisely and use “steadily” to convey the appropriate meaning in your writing.