patiently

patiently — adverb

1. with calm self-control, especially when you must wait, repeat something, or deal

1.adverbB2
Definition

with calm self-control, especially when you must wait, repeat something, or deal with problems that take time.

Example

Mia waited patiently outside the clinic while her son saw the doctor.

collocation: wait patiently

The coach patiently showed Ben how to hold the tennis racket.

patiently + show someone how to do something

Common collocations
  • wait patiently
  • listen patiently
  • patiently explain
  • patiently answer questions
  • patiently teach someone
Synonyms
  • calmly

    broader and does not always suggest long waiting or repeated effort

  • gently

    adds softness and kindness, especially in voice or touch

  • tolerantly

    focuses more on putting up with behaviour or opinions you dislike

Antonyms
  • impatiently

    shows annoyance because something is too slow or repeated

  • hastily

    focuses on acting too quickly rather than staying calm

  • angrily

    shows open frustration instead of calm control

Grammar Patterns

wait patiently

patiently explain something to someone

listen patiently

Usage Note

Often used with verbs such as wait, listen, explain, teach, and answer. Distinguish it from 'slowly': slowly describes speed, while patiently describes a calm attitude during delay or difficulty.

Common Mistakes

The teacher explained patiently the rule.
The teacher patiently explained the rule.
with a direct object, patiently usually goes before the verb, not between the verb and the object.
We waited with patience for the rain to stop.
We waited patiently for the rain to stop.
use the adverb patiently to describe the action.

Word family

Synonym discussion

Sense: adverb/1

'Patiently' is the best general adverb when someone stays calm through delay, repetition, or slow progress. 'Calmly' is wider: a person can speak calmly in a crisis without waiting very long. 'Gently' adds kindness and softness, especially when helping a child, a sick person, or an animal, but it does not always suggest long endurance. 'Tolerantly' is more about accepting behaviour, opinions, or habits that may annoy you. If a teacher explains the same math step five times, 'patiently' fits best. If a doctor speaks in a soft voice, 'gently' may fit better. During a late train, 'calmly' and 'patiently' can both work, but 'patiently' stresses the waiting.

patiently ↗calmly ↗gently ↗tolerantly

Etymology

LatinOld FrenchMiddle EnglishEnglish

Patiently is built from the adjective patient and the English adverb ending -ly. Patient came into English through French from Latin words linked to enduring pain or delay. That history still shows in the modern meaning, which is about staying calm and not complaining when something takes time or becomes difficult.