Completely vs. Wholly

Attribute	Completely	Wholly
Definition	Entirely, fully, without exception	Entirely, fully, without exception
Usage	Commonly used in everyday language	Less commonly used, more formal
Origin	Derived from Middle English and Latin roots	Derived from Old English and Middle English roots
Emphasis	Emphasizes completeness or thoroughness	Emphasizes entirety or completeness

Definition

Completely and wholly are both adverbs that are used to emphasize the entirety or full extent of something. Completely is often used to indicate that something is done to the fullest extent or without exception. For example, "I completely finished my homework." Wholly, on the other hand, is used to emphasize that something is complete in every part or aspect. For example, "I am wholly committed to this project."

Usage

Completely is more commonly used in everyday language and is often interchangeable with the word "totally." It is used to emphasize that something is done fully or entirely. For example, "I completely agree with your assessment." Wholly, on the other hand, is less commonly used and is often seen as more formal or literary. It is used to emphasize that something is complete in all its parts or aspects. For example, "I am wholly satisfied with the results."

Intensifiers

Both completely and wholly can be used as intensifiers to add emphasis to a statement. They can be used to show that something is done to the fullest extent or without exception. For example, "I completely forgot about our meeting" or "I am wholly dedicated to this cause." In these cases, both words serve to emphasize the degree or extent of the action or feeling being described.

Synonyms

Completely and wholly are often used as synonyms for each other, but there are subtle differences in their connotations. Completely is often used in a more casual or informal context, while wholly is used in a more formal or literary context. Some synonyms for completely include totally, entirely, and fully. Some synonyms for wholly include entirely, fully, and thoroughly.

Examples

Here are some examples of how completely and wholly can be used in sentences:

• "I completely forgot about our anniversary."
• "She is completely dedicated to her work."
• "The project is wholly funded by the government."
• "He is wholly committed to his beliefs."

Conclusion

In conclusion, completely and wholly are both adverbs that are used to emphasize the entirety or full extent of something. While they are often used as synonyms for each other, there are subtle differences in their connotations and usage. Completely is more commonly used in everyday language and is often interchangeable with the word "totally," while wholly is less commonly used and is often seen as more formal or literary. Both words can be used as intensifiers to add emphasis to a statement and can be used to show that something is done to the fullest extent or without exception.