“Softly” and “quietly” are both adverbs that describe how something is done regarding sound or intensity, but they have distinct meanings.

“Softly” typically describes actions that are gentle, delicate, or with a light touch. It is commonly associated with the manner in which something is done with tenderness or smoothness. For example, someone might speak softly to convey a sense of warmth or approachability.

On the other hand, “quietly” refers specifically to the absence of noise or a low volume. It implies a subdued or hushed quality, often related to the level of sound being produced. For instance, someone might walk quietly in order to avoid making noise.

In terms of perception, using “softly” emphasizes the gentle or smooth nature of an action, focusing on the texture or finesse involved. When “quietly” is employed, the emphasis is on the lack of noise or the subdued quality of sound produced, highlighting a sense of calm or restraint.

Overall, “softly” emphasizes the manner in which an action is carried out with gentleness or delicacy, while “quietly” underscores the low volume or subdued quality of sound. Both adverbs play a crucial role in describing actions or events in relation to their tactile or auditory attributes.