highly

Very or to a great degree.

• That seems highly unlikely.
• The new product was highly successful.
• This information is highly sensitive, so keep it private.

Similar words: very, extremely, greatly

Common phrases: highly likely, highly successful, highly sensitive, highly visible

To a great degree, especially when describing someone's skill, knowledge, or training.

• We need highly skilled workers.
• The nurses were highly trained and experienced.
• Is she highly qualified for this kind of work?

Similar words: very, extremely

Common phrases: highly qualified, highly skilled, highly trained

With great respect or a very good opinion.

• I think highly of her.
• His colleagues spoke highly of his work.
• She is highly regarded by everyone in the department.

How to use it: think/speak highly of someone/something (My parents think highly of your teacher.)

Similar words: favorably, well

Opposites: poorly

Common phrases: think highly of, speak highly of, regard someone highly

At a position with a lot of power or authority.

• She has highly placed friends in government.
• A highly placed official confirmed the news.
• The company used its highly placed contacts to arrange the meeting.

Common phrases: highly placed, highly positioned