What is absolutely? Pronunciation and usage in English

absolutely means . Learn how to pronounce and use absolutely through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of absolutely

absolutelyadverb

/ˈabsəluːtli//ˌabsəˈluːtli/
Definition & pronunciation of absolutely

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "absolutely" in English. It's a tricky one for many learners! Here's a detailed explanation:

1. Syllable Breakdown:

  • ab- (as in "apple") - Short, quick sound
  • so- (as in "sofa") - Short, quick sound
  • lut- (as in "blue") - Short, quick sound
  • -ly (as in "lovely") - This is a common English suffix, adding the meaning of "in a certain way."

2. Phonetics (Simplified):

  • ab: /æb/ (The 'a' sounds like the 'a' in 'apple')
  • so: /soʊ/ (The 'o' sounds like the 'o' in 'boat')
  • lut: /lʌt/ (The 'u' sounds like the 'u' in 'but')
  • ly: /li/ (The 'y' sounds like the 'y' in 'yes')

3. Putting it Together (the flow):

The general rule of thumb is to say it as one, long word. Here's a breakdown of the emphasis:

  • Emphasis: The primary stress is on the first syllable: ab-
  • Rhythm: Think of it as: "ab-so-lut-ly" (almost like a little pause between "so" and "lut")

4. Common Mispronunciations and How to Fix Them:

  • Saying "ab-so-BUT-ly": This is the most common mistake! The "but" sound is incorrect. It should be a softer "lut."
  • Linking the syllables too much: Don't let it flow too smoothly into one continuous sound. A slight pause between "so" and "lut" helps.

5. Resources for Hearing it:

  • Google Translate: Type "absolutely" into Google Translate and click the speaker icon. It will give you a good native pronunciation.
  • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/absolutely/ - This website has pronunciations by native speakers from different regions.

To help me give you even more targeted advice, could you tell me:

  • Where are you from? (Your native language might influence your pronunciation.)
  • What part of "absolutely" are you finding most difficult? (e.g., the "lut" sound, the linking of syllables?)

Usage and examples with the word absolutely in English

Let's break down how to use "absolutely" in English. It's a versatile word that adds emphasis and certainty. Here's a breakdown of its uses, with examples:

1. To Express Strong Agreement or Confirmation:

  • Meaning: This is the most common use. It means "completely," "totally," "certainly," or "definitely."
  • Examples:
    • "Are you going to the party?" "Absolutely!" (Meaning: Yes, definitely!)
    • "Did you finish your homework?" "Absolutely, I just finished it." (Meaning: Completely, totally.)
    • "Is this the correct way?" "Absolutely!" (Meaning: Yes, definitely.)

2. To Express Strong Certainty or Truth:

  • Meaning: It reinforces that something is true or real.
  • Examples:
    • "The weather is beautiful today." "Absolutely! It's perfect for a picnic."
    • "She's a brilliant musician." "Absolutely, everyone agrees."
    • "That’s absolutely true.”

3. To Add Emphasis to a Verb or Adjective:

  • Meaning: It highlights the intensity of the action or quality.
  • Examples:
    • "I absolutely love chocolate." (Emphasizes the love of chocolate)
    • "I absolutely hate waiting in line." (Emphasizes the dislike of waiting)
    • “He absolutely destroyed his opponent in the match.” (Emphasizes how well he played.)

4. To Express Unconditional Agreement or Promise:

  • Meaning: You're saying you will do something without hesitation.
  • Examples:
    • "I’ll help you with your move?" "Absolutely!" (Meaning: I’ll definitely help you.)
    • "Can you pick me up at 8?" "Absolutely, no problem."

5. (Less Common) To Imply Disbelief or Shock (Can be slightly sarcastic):

  • Meaning: Used to express surprise or disbelief, sometimes with a touch of sarcasm. Be careful with this usage – it can come across as dismissive if not used thoughtfully.
  • Examples:
    • "You won the lottery?" "Absolutely!" (Said with a skeptical tone, implying you find it hard to believe)
    • "He said he was swimming with sharks?" "Absolutely ridiculous!"

Important Notes & Tips:

  • Don't overuse it: While "absolutely" adds emphasis, using it too frequently can make your speech sound monotonous or over-the-top. Choose it when you genuinely want to strengthen your point.
  • Alternatives: Consider these alternatives depending on the nuance you want to convey:
    • Completely
    • Totally
    • Definitely
    • Certainly
    • Absolutely definitely (for extra emphasis)
  • Intonation: Your tone of voice is crucial! "Absolutely" spoken with enthusiasm conveys agreement, while a flat tone might suggest disbelief.

Let’s test your understanding!

Try to rewrite these sentences using “absolutely” to add emphasis:

  1. "I think this movie is good."
  2. "He is very tired."
  3. “She finished the project on time.”

Would you like me to:

  • Give you more examples?
  • Help you understand how "absolutely" differs from similar words like "certainly" or "really"?

Synonyms for the word absolutely

Practice with vocabulary absolutely

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. I ________ agree with your proposal; it’s well thought out.
  2. The results were ________ clear, leaving no room for doubt.
  3. She was ________ certain about her decision to accept the job offer.
  4. The meeting was ________ productive, and we achieved all our goals.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. Which word best emphasizes agreement?
    a) Absolutely
    b) Maybe
    c) Probably
    d) Slightly

  2. Which word fits most naturally in this sentence: "I’m ________ exhausted after the long hike."
    a) Absolutely
    b) Very
    c) Somewhat
    d) Rarely

  3. Which sentence uses "absolutely" correctly?
    a) She absolutely loves chocolate.
    b) He absolutely failed the exam.
    c) They absolutely arrived late.
    d) It absolutely rained yesterday.

  4. Which word best replaces "completely" in this sentence: "The task was ________ finished."
    a) Absolutely
    b) Nearly
    c) Partially
    d) Slightly

  5. Which word is NOT a synonym of "absolutely"?
    a) Definitely
    b) Totally
    c) Possibly
    d) Entirely

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. Original: She was completely unaware of the changes.
    Rewrite: ________
  2. Original: This is the most important task of the day.
    Rewrite: ________
  3. Original: The project was entirely successful.
    Rewrite: ________

Answers:
Exercise 1:

  1. absolutely
  2. absolutely
  3. completely
  4. highly

Exercise 2:

  1. a) Absolutely
  2. a) Absolutely
  3. a) She absolutely loves chocolate.
  4. a) Absolutely
  5. c) Possibly

Exercise 3:

  1. She was absolutely unaware of the changes.
  2. This is absolutely the most important task of the day.
  3. The project was completely successful.

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