not completely

/nɒt kəmˈpliːtli/
adverbial phraseIntermediate
general

To a significant but not total extent; partially but not entirely.

She understood the concept, but not completely.

She grasped the idea, but not entirely.

The project was finished, but not completely.

The task was completed, but not fully.

💡

Often used to indicate partial understanding, completion, or agreement.

Collocations

not completely satisfiedpartially content but with reservationsnot completely convincedsomewhat doubtful or hesitant

Synonyms

Antonyms

Related Phrases

not entirelyphrase
Similar to 'not completely,' but often implies a slightly lesser degree of partiality.
partiallyphrase
To some extent, but not fully.

💡Pro Tip

Nuanced Expressions

Use 'not completely' when you want to emphasize that something is true or done to a significant but not total extent. It is often used to soften a statement or to indicate reservations.

Gold Rule

Avoid Overuse

While 'not completely' is useful for nuanced expressions, avoid overusing it in formal writing where more precise language may be preferred.

📖Word Origin

Derived from the combination of 'not' (negation) and 'completely' (adverb meaning 'to the fullest extent').

📝Usage Notes

This phrase is commonly used to express that something is true or done to a significant degree but not in its entirety. It is often used in contexts where a nuanced or qualified statement is needed.

Word Breakdown

not
negation
prefix
+
completely
to the fullest extent
adverb
English Dictionary