Completely Meaning

UK /kəmˈpliːt.li/
US /kəmˈpliːt.li/
Word Definition
completely meaning

Completely Definition & Usage

adverb

In a manner that is total, thorough, or absolute, leaving nothing undone or incomplete.

Examples

  • "I completely forgot about our meeting today."
  • "The task was completely finished by the end of the day."
  • "She was completely exhausted after the marathon."
  • "The project has completely transformed the neighborhood."
  • "They completely disagreed on the topic of the debate."
adverb

To describe something in a way that is entirely true or factual, with no exaggeration or uncertainty.

Examples

  • "He was completely honest about his past mistakes."
  • "The explanation was completely clear and easy to follow."
  • "The witness was completely certain about what they saw."
  • "The report was completely accurate, leaving no room for doubt."
  • "She felt completely justified in her decision to leave."

Cultural Context

The word 'completely' comes from the Latin 'completus', which means 'filled up, finished, or whole'. It has been used in English since the late Middle Ages to describe a state of thoroughness or totality. In modern usage, 'completely' emphasizes that something is done in an absolute or total manner, often for dramatic effect.

The Puzzle of Perfection

Story

The Puzzle of Perfection

Claire had always been someone who prided herself on being thorough. When she sat down to finish the 1000-piece puzzle that had been sitting on her table for weeks, she was determined to do it completely—no shortcuts, no rushing. She had already spent hours on it, but now, with only a few pieces left, the challenge was about finishing it perfectly. As the last piece clicked into place, a sense of satisfaction washed over her. It wasn’t just done—it was complete, every piece fitting seamlessly with the next. Later, her friend Emma came over. Claire was eager to show off the finished puzzle, but Emma raised an eyebrow when she noticed a few pieces seemed to have been forced in. Claire, always striving for truth and integrity, looked over and realized that, although the puzzle looked complete, she hadn’t completely examined the border pieces. With a sigh, she took it apart and started again. ‘You know,’ Emma said, laughing, ‘you’re completely obsessed with perfection!’ Claire smiled. She didn’t mind. Being thorough wasn’t just about puzzles; it was about life. In her work, she had completely committed herself to making her designs flawless, even if it meant staying late in the office. As the evening wore on, the two friends talked about life, love, and careers. Claire was completely honest about her ambitions, while Emma was more laid-back. But no matter their differences, they were united in their complete love of friendship. By the end of the night, Claire had finished the puzzle, completely and perfectly. As she looked at her work, she realized that sometimes completeness didn’t mean perfection—it meant giving everything your best shot, no matter the outcome.

The Puzzle of Perfection