Hardly, barely: How and When to Use in English

Quick and simple lesson to help you understand grammar better.
Test your English and learn even more with Gymglish.

TEST YOUR ENGLISH Free with no obligation to buy.
4,6 on App Store, Play Store and Trustpilot
More than 7 million users

Hardly, barely

Hardly and barely mean 'just', 'not very much', or 'scarcely':
The weather is so bad that he can hardly see the road. The weather is so bad that he has difficulty seeing the road.
After his accident, he could barely walk. After his accident, he had great difficulty walking.
I can barely hear you. I can't hear you very well at all.
It should be noted that hardly and barely have negative connotations. Make sure you don't repeat the negative, as that would be grammatically incorrect:
You can barely walk, can you? (and NOT can't you?)
They hardly know anybody here. (and NOT nobody)

Still facing difficulties with 'Hardly, barely'? Improve your English with Gymglish's English lessons - try our online English course for free now and receive a free level assessment!

What our users say:

Pleasure

         

I enjoy doing my online English lessons. Only ten minutes daily are enough...Thank you!

Innovative

         

I love your innovative method which allows me to learn a new language and have fun at the same time!

Unique

         

Your method is unique! Your courses have helped me to progress and gain confidence during my travels.

Progress

         

Gymglish has allowed me to improve my English. A daily routine I wouldn't miss for anything in the world!

More testimonials.

Find out about other grammar rules. Improve your English further and test Gymglish, online English lessons.

Tips for learning 'Hardly, barely'? Share them with us!

TEST YOUR ENGLISH