adv. [f. prec. + -LY2.] In a congruous manner, in congruity.
1. In a manner that agrees or corresponds; accordantly, conformably. Const. to, with.
1656. Hardy, St. John, lviii. (1865), 375/1. More congruously to this present scripture.
1697. South, Serm., Job xxii. 2. [Merit] such, that God would not act sutably, and congruously, to the Equity and Goodness of his Nature, if He should not reward it.
1861. F. Hall, in Journ. As. Soc. Bengal, 4. Congruously with such avoidance of an invidious term.
2. In a manner that fits the circumstances; suitably, fitly, appropriately.
a. 1619. Fotherby, Atheom., I. x. § 4 (1622), 103. Neither of which points can congruously be held by him that holdeth There is no God.
1675. Baxter, Cath. Theol., I. III. 84. Or must we not more congruously say, that [etc.].
1865. Pall Mall G., 21 Oct., 5. Whether four millions of their race … could mingle harmoniously and congruously in the social system of the country.
† 3. With grammatical correctness, correctly.
1642. Howell, For. Trav. (Arb.), 20. To speake French intelligibly, roundly, and congruously.
1652. Evelyn, State of Fr., Misc. Writ. (1805), 45. The tongue of the country … ought to be understood perfectly, written congruously, and spoken intelligently.
