Cool MateCompletely vs Utterly
When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.
| Completely | Utterly | |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | Totally or fully. | completely or very much |
| CEFR level | A2 | C1 |
| Part of speech | adverb | adverb |
| 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. | Use 'utterly' in both spoken and written English to emphasize the totality of an action or state. It is more intense than just saying 'very'. It may not be appropriate in casual conversation, where simpler terms are often preferred. |
Frequently asked questions: Completely vs Utterly
What's the difference between "Completely" and "Utterly"?
"Completely" means: Totally or fully. "Utterly" means: completely or very much
When should I use "Completely" and "Utterly"?
They can all be used in everyday English.
Are "Completely" and "Utterly" the same CEFR level?
"Completely" is at A2, "Utterly" is at C1 on the CEFR scale.