What is completely? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of completely

completelyadverb

/kəmˈpliːtli/
Definition & pronunciation of completely

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "completely" in English. It can be a tricky one for learners! Here's a breakdown with phonetic transcription and explanations:

1. Phonetic Transcription (IPA - International Phonetic Alphabet):

/kɪ mplɪtli/

2. Breakdown of Sounds:

  • kɪ: This is a short, quick "k" sound followed by a short "i" sound, like in the word "kit." Think of it as a very brief "kuh."
  • mplɪt: This is where a lot of people stumble. Let's break it down further:
    • mpl: This is a "m" sound blended closely with an "pl" sound (like in "apple"). It's a single, continuous sound.
    • ɪt: Short "i" sound as in "bit."
    • lɪ: A short "i" sound as in "sit."
  • li: A quick "l" sound.

3. Putting it Together - How it Sounds:

Imagine saying "kuh" very quickly, then "m-pluh," then "ee-t," then "luh." It flows together smoothly.

4. Tips for Pronunciation:

  • Stress: The stress is on the first syllable: com-pletely. Emphasize "com."

  • Blend the "mpl": Really try to blend the "m" and "pl" together into a single sound. Don't pronounce them separately.

  • Don't over-elongate: "Completely" should be said with a natural flow. Don't stretch out any of the syllables too much.

  • Listen to Examples: This is crucial. The best way to learn is to hear native speakers. Here are some resources:

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

  • Where are you from? (Pronunciation can vary slightly between English dialects.)
  • What specifically are you struggling with in the pronunciation? (e.g., the "mpl" sound, the flow of the words?)

Usage and examples with the word completely in English

Let's break down how to use "completely" effectively in English. It's a versatile word that adds a strong emphasis to your sentence. Here's a breakdown of its uses, with examples:

1. As an Adverb – Meaning “Entirely” or “Totally”

This is the most common usage. "Completely" means entirely, totally, or absolutely. It emphasizes that something has been done or experienced to its fullest extent.

  • Example: "I completely forgot about the meeting." (Meaning I didn't remember it at all.)
  • Example: "The room was completely dark." (Meaning there was no light at all.)
  • Example: "She completely destroyed the cake." (Meaning she ruined it entirely.)
  • Example: "He completely understands the problem." (Meaning he understands it perfectly.)

2. As an Adjective (Less Common)

"Completely" can sometimes be used as an adjective, though it's less frequent and can sound slightly formal or emphatic. It describes something that is devoid of anything else.

  • Example: "He’s completely exhausted." (Meaning he has no energy left.) – This is better phrased as "He's utterly exhausted."
  • Example: “The area is completely deserted.” (Meaning there’s no one there at all.) – Again, “utterly” or “totally” often sound more natural.

3. With Verbs – Adding Emphasis

Using "completely" before a verb adds a significant level of intensity.

  • Example: "I completely agree with you." (Stronger than "I agree with you.")
  • Example: "He completely ignored my suggestion." (More forceful than "He ignored my suggestion.")
  • Example: "She completely finished the project." (Suggests she did it thoroughly and to completion.)

4. With Phrases (Common Combinations)

Here are some common phrases using "completely":

  • Completely agree: (Strongly agree)
  • Completely exhausted: (Totally worn out)
  • Completely satisfied: (Very pleased)
  • Completely unaware: (Not knowing at all)
  • Completely different: (Significantly different)
  • Completely unacceptable: (Unacceptable in any way)

Important Notes & Considerations:

  • Overuse: Be careful not to overuse "completely." While it's a good word to have in your vocabulary, too much use can make your writing or speech sound repetitive or dramatic. Often, you can achieve the same effect with other words like "totally," "entirely," "absolutely," or "utterly."

  • Alternatives: Here are some words that can often substitute for "completely," depending on the nuance you want to convey:

    • Entirely: (Focuses on the whole)
    • Totally: (More informal, emphasizes the absolute)
    • Absolutely: (Strong affirmation)
    • Utterly: (Adds a sense of surprise or distress)
    • Thoroughly: (Focuses on a complete process)

  • Formal vs. Informal: "Completely" is generally acceptable in both formal and informal contexts, but “totally” is more casual.

Let’s test your understanding!

Try to rewrite these sentences using "completely":

  1. I didn’t see the sign.
  2. I felt very tired after the hike.
  3. I think that’s a bad idea.

Would you like me to give you the answers and explain why “completely” works in each case? Or would you like me to give you some more examples or focus on a specific aspect of its usage (e.g., using it in writing)?

Synonyms for the word completely

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