flat
ly
1
in a way that shows little emotion, interest, or enthusiasm
- She answered flatly, showing no surprise.
- "I don't care," he said flatly.
- The witness spoke flatly, without emotion.
- "That's not true," she replied flatly.
- He listened flatly, unmoved by the story.
Synonyms:
2
in a firm, clear, and absolute manner, often used to express refusal or denial
- They flatly refused the offer.
- He flatly denied all accusations.
- The company flatly rejected the proposal.
- She flatly said no to the request.
- We were told flatly that no exceptions would be made.
Synonyms:
3
in a smooth, even, or level way, without variation
- I painted the wall flatly, without texture.
- The surface was coated flatly and evenly.
- He applied the makeup flatly across his face.
- The carpet lay flatly on the floor.
- The cake was decorated flatly, without any raised patterns.
Synonyms: