A2adverb1K

Completely

UK /["/kəmˈpliːtli/"]/US /["/kəmˈpliːtli/"]/

Definition

in every way possible; in every part

In simple words: Totally or fully.

Examples

  • I completely forgot about the meeting today.
  • The project was completely finished ahead of schedule.
  • I was completely surprised by her gift.
  • He is completely honest in all his dealings.
  • The puzzle was completely difficult to solve.

Usage notes

Use 'completely' to emphasize the totality of an action or state. It's suitable for both spoken and written English but might sound overemphasized in casual conversation.

Grammar pattern

standalone adverb

Memory hint

Think of 'complete' with 'ly' — fully finished, like a puzzle that's done.

Collocations

  • completely agree
  • completely understand
  • completely satisfied
  • completely different
  • completely unaware

Synonyms

  • totally

Antonyms

  • partially
  • incompletely
  • somewhat

Common mistakes

  • Using 'completely' without a verb or action.
  • Confusing 'completely' with 'totally' in formal contexts.
  • Saying 'completely' in casual situations where simpler words like 'really' might fit better.