be back directly
I will return shortly.
Also called directly.
Updated September 21, 2026
be back directly pronunciation
/bee bak duh-REK-lee/
Meaning
A promise to come back soon. Directly here means presently, not in a straight line. In Southern speech that soon can be honest minutes or a softer stretch of time, depending on the speaker.
How folks use it
- “Y'all start without me. I will be back directly.”
- “Run to the truck. I will be back directly with the keys.”
Origin and etymology
Older English directly meant immediately or soon. Southern and Appalachian speech kept that timing sense. Be back directly is a stock farewell for a short errand.
Frequently asked questions
Does directly mean right this second?
It means soon. How soon depends on the person. It is not about walking in a straight line.