spontaneously
/spɒnˈteɪni.li/adverb★Intermediate
formalinformal
In a spontaneous manner; without premeditation or external influence; naturally or impulsively.
She spontaneously decided to travel to Europe last summer.
He spontaneously offered to help with the project.
💡
Often used to describe actions or reactions that occur without prior planning or external prompting.
Collocations
spontaneously combustto catch fire suddenly and unexpectedlyspontaneously generateto produce something without prior planning
Synonyms
Antonyms
Related Phrases
on the spur of the momentphrase
without prior planning
💡Pro Tip
Usage Tip
Use 'spontaneously' to describe actions that happen naturally or without prior thought, but avoid using it for events that are clearly planned.
⚡Gold Rule
Grammar Rule
'Spontaneously' is an adverb and should not be confused with the adjective 'spontaneous'.
📖Word Origin
From the Latin 'spontaneus' (voluntary, of one's own accord) + '-ly' (adverbial suffix).
📝Usage Notes
Can be used in both positive and negative contexts, depending on whether the spontaneity is seen as beneficial or problematic.
Word Breakdown
spontane
of one's own accord
root-ous
having the quality of
suffix-ly
adverbial suffix
suffixEnglish Dictionary