B2adverb2K

Entirely

UK /["/ɪnˈtaɪəli/"]/US /["/ɪnˈtaɪərli/"]/

Definition

in every way possible; completely

In simple words: Completely or fully.

Examples

  • The experience was **entirely new** to me.
  • That's an **entirely different** matter.
  • We're not entirely sure what to do next.
  • The approach taken will depend entirely on the individual.
  • The audience consisted **almost entirely** of children.
  • I entirely agree with you.
  • I'm not entirely happy about the proposal.
  • Public anger at this abuse of power is entirely justified.
  • Your enjoyment of the book will depend entirely on how interested you are in history.
  • The audience was almost entirely female.

Usage notes

Used to emphasize completeness. Suitable in both spoken and written contexts; however, avoid in overly casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

entirely + adverb/adjective/verb

Memory hint

Think of 'entire' — if something is entire, it is completely whole.

Collocations

  • entirely different
  • entirely possible
  • entirely subjective

Synonyms

  • completely
  • fully
  • totally
  • wholly

Antonyms

  • partially
  • incompletely

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'entire' which is an adjective.
  • Used incorrectly in informal contexts, such as in slang.
  • Misplaced in a sentence, making it sound awkward.