B2adverb3K

Emotionally

UK /["/ɪˈməʊʃənəli/"]/US /["/ɪˈməʊʃənəli/"]/

Definition

in a way that is connected with people's feelings (= with the emotions)

In simple words: Related to feelings or emotional states.

Examples

  • emotionally disturbed children
  • I try not to become emotionally involved.
  • They have suffered physically and emotionally.
  • an emotionally charged atmosphere

Usage notes

Use 'emotionally' to describe actions or states influenced by feelings. Generally suitable in both spoken and written contexts, but may be less appropriate in strictly formal writing.

Grammar pattern

emotionally + adverb/adjective/verb

Memory hint

Think of 'emotionally' as 'E-motions going up and down'.

Collocations

  • emotionally charged
  • emotionally invested
  • emotionally unstable
  • emotionally distant

Synonyms

  • affectively
  • impactfully
  • sentimentally

Antonyms

  • emotionless
  • dispassionate
  • stoic

Common mistakes

  • 'Emotionally' is often confused with 'emotional'.
  • 'Emotionally' is sometimes used interchangeably with 'mentally', which is incorrect.
  • Learners often forget to pair 'emotionally' with the right verbs.