Definitely vs. Entirely
What's the Difference?
Definitely and entirely are both adverbs that convey a sense of certainty or completeness. However, there is a subtle difference in their meanings. Definitely suggests a high level of certainty or assurance, while entirely implies a sense of completeness or wholeness. For example, "I definitely want to go to the concert" conveys a strong sense of certainty, while "I entirely agree with your point" suggests complete agreement without any reservations. Overall, both words are used to emphasize a strong conviction or completeness in a statement.
Comparison
Attribute | Definitely | Entirely |
---|---|---|
Definition | Without doubt or question | Completely, wholly |
Usage | Used to emphasize certainty | Used to emphasize completeness |
Intensity | Strong emphasis on certainty | Strong emphasis on completeness |
Scope | Can be used in various contexts | Primarily used to describe completeness |
Further Detail
Definition
Definitely and entirely are two adverbs that are often used interchangeably, but they have distinct meanings. Definitely means without a doubt or certainly, while entirely means completely or wholly. Both words convey a sense of certainty, but definitely is more focused on confirming something as true, while entirely emphasizes completeness or fullness.
Usage
When it comes to usage, definitely is commonly used to affirm a statement or express certainty. For example, "I definitely want to go to the concert." On the other hand, entirely is often used to emphasize the completeness of something. For instance, "The project was entirely successful." Both words can be used to strengthen a statement, but they are used in slightly different contexts.
Intensifiers
Definitely is often used as an intensifier to emphasize the certainty of a statement. It can be used to convey a strong sense of conviction or assurance. For example, "I definitely saw him at the party." On the other hand, entirely is used as an intensifier to emphasize the completeness or fullness of something. For instance, "The room was entirely empty." Both words can add emphasis to a statement, but they do so in different ways.
Scope
Definitely is typically used to confirm or assert the truth of a statement within a specific context. It is often used to express a strong belief or conviction about something. For example, "I definitely think she will win the competition." Entirely, on the other hand, is used to describe something that is complete or whole in its entirety. For instance, "The book was entirely devoted to the history of art." Both words have a specific scope in which they are used.
Subjectivity
Definitely is often used to express a subjective opinion or belief about something. It is a word that conveys personal certainty or conviction. For example, "I definitely prefer chocolate over vanilla." Entirely, on the other hand, is more objective in its usage, emphasizing the completeness or totality of something. For instance, "The project was entirely funded by donations." Both words can be subjective or objective depending on the context in which they are used.
Conclusion
In conclusion, definitely and entirely are two adverbs that have distinct meanings and usage. Definitely is used to affirm a statement or express certainty, while entirely emphasizes completeness or fullness. Both words can be used as intensifiers to add emphasis to a statement, but they do so in different ways. Definitely is typically used within a specific context to confirm the truth of a statement, while entirely describes something that is complete or whole. Finally, definitely is often used subjectively to express personal belief or conviction, while entirely is more objective in its usage. Overall, both words have their own unique attributes that make them valuable additions to the English language.
Comparisons may contain inaccurate information about people, places, or facts. Please report any issues.