Localy vs. Locally: Which is the Correct Spelling?

"Localy" is an incorrect spelling of the word "locally."
"Locally" is an adverb that pertains to a specific area or locality, indicating that something happens or exists within a particular region or community.

For example...

❌ The farmer sells his produce localy at the neighborhood market.

✅ The farmer sells his produce locally at the neighborhood market.

In this sentence, "locally" describes how the farmer sells his produce, indicating that he sells it within the nearby area or community.

What does "locally" mean?

"Locally" can convey various meanings and applications, each emphasizing a sense of proximity or connection to a specific region or community:

Pertaining to or characteristic of a particular area or locality:

When used in this context, "locally" refers to actions, events, or phenomena that occur within a specific geographic region or community. It highlights the proximity or connection of something to a particular locality, distinguishing it from broader or more generalized contexts. Whether it's a local business, a community event, or a neighborhood initiative, actions or phenomena described as "locally" typically have relevance or significance within a specific geographic boundary.

In relation to local residents or businesses:

"Locally" can also denote activities, services, or resources that cater to the needs or interests of residents within a specific area. It emphasizes the importance of supporting local economies, businesses, or initiatives, fostering community engagement, and promoting sustainability. Actions or initiatives undertaken "locally" often aim to address local challenges, promote local culture, or enhance the quality of life for residents within a particular region.

Localy vs. Locally: Which is the Correct Spelling?

The use of "localy" and "locally" over time

The Ngram graph below shows how often "localy" and "locally" have been used from the 1800s to the 2000s. "Locally" has seen steady use throughout time, peaking in the 1960s before declining, while its misspelling "localy" has always seen nearly zero use.

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How to pronounce "locally"

In both British and American English, "locally" is pronounced like "low·kuh·lee".

Additional notes:
This is just the standard pronunciation, and there may be slight variations depending on regional accents and individual speech patterns.

Why would we misspell "locally" as "localy"?

Typo: "Localy" is essentially "locally" with a missing "l", and someone might easily skip one "l" when typing quickly or carelessly.
False analogy: Most adverbs ending in "-ly" only use one "l", such as "happily". This might lead someone to conclude that "locally" also only uses one "l", leading to the misspelling "locally".

Other common misspellings of "locally"

localyy
locallly
localey
loacally
loclly

Example sentences of the misspelling of "locally" as "localy"

"Localy" is an incorrect spelling; it should be "locally".
Please note the spelling error; it's "locally," not "localy".
Be cautious with your spelling; the accurate term is "locally," not "localy".
Double-check your writing; the proper form is "locally," not "localy".
Your document contains a typo; it should say "locally," not "localy".

Example sentences of "locally"

The cafe sources its ingredients locally from nearby farms.
We advocate for sustainable practices to benefit the community locally.
The library hosts locally curated book clubs and reading events.
He promotes his artwork locally through neighborhood exhibitions.
The nonprofit organization provides assistance locally to families in need.
The concert series showcases locally talented musicians and artists.
The bakery specializes in using locally sourced organic ingredients.
The initiative aims to improve access to healthcare services locally.
We encourage consumers to support locally owned businesses.
The mayor's speech addressed issues affecting the community locally.

Check out our other related blog posts:
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🖊️ How to Correctly Use the Abbreviations of Township

Synonyms for "locally"

Regionally
Proximately
Domestically
Nearby
Provincially

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References:

Definition of LOCALLY

with respect to a particular place or situation; nearby; in the region of origin… See the full definition

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