B1adverb2K

Perfectly

UK /["/ˈpɜːfɪktli/"]/US /["/ˈpɜːrfɪktli/"]/

Definition

completely

In simple words: In a way that is completely correct or ideal.

Examples

  • She performed the dance perfectly, impressing everyone in the audience.
  • The cake was baked perfectly, with a golden crust and fluffy texture.
  • He described the situation perfectly, leaving no room for misunderstanding.
  • The team worked together perfectly to complete the project ahead of schedule.
  • The weather was perfectly calm, making it a great day for sailing.

Usage notes

Use 'perfectly' to emphasize that something is done in the best possible way. It's suitable for both spoken and written English, but avoid it in overly casual contexts.

Grammar pattern

perfectly + adverb/adjective

Memory hint

Think of 'perfectly' as 'like a perfect circle' — totally complete and smooth.

Collocations

  • perform perfectly
  • fit perfectly
  • align perfectly
  • speak perfectly
  • understand perfectly

Synonyms

  • flawlessly
  • excellently
  • perfect
  • ideally
  • immaculately

Antonyms

  • imperfectly
  • faultily
  • defectively

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'perfect' (adjective) instead of 'perfectly' (adverb).
  • Using 'perfectly' when 'well' is more appropriate.
  • Overusing 'perfectly' in contexts that don't require emphasis.