earthly

Everyday

1. Of this world and this life, not of heaven. tree →
2. (informal, with no, any or why) At all; possible, as in «no earthly use» or «why on earth». tree →
3. Of the planet Earth, as opposed to space. tree →

In the lessons

In church language «earthly» is contrasted with «heavenly»: Christians believe earthly riches pass away but heavenly treasure lasts. In everyday talk it strengthens a question or a «no»: «no earthly reason», «not an earthly chance». In science fiction «earthly» means from Earth.

Examples

• There's no earthly reason why you can't finish your homework now. tree →
• Why on earth did you paint the cat blue? tree →
• He gave away his earthly possessions and became a monk. tree →
• Christians believe that earthly life is not the end. tree →
• That old bike is no earthly use to anyone. tree →
• The Bible says not to store up treasures on earth but in heaven. tree →
• The alien had never tasted earthly food. tree →
• She hasn't an earthly chance of winning. tree →
• He who filled her every thought! he whom she loved best, and who was her whole earthly pride! tree →

Note

Adjective; it is used before nouns (earthly life), and in the strengthening sense only with «no», «any», «not» or questions. Opposite in religious use: «heavenly». Do not confuse with «earthy» (smelling of soil; plain and down-to-earth). «Why on earth» is the common phrase.