utterly
/ˈʌtərli/adverb★Intermediate— completely or entirely
formalinformal
to the greatest possible degree; completely or entirely
The plan utterly failed.
The plan failed completely.
He was utterly convinced of his innocence.
He was completely convinced of his innocence.
💡
Often used to emphasize a strong or absolute state.
Collocations
utterly destroyedcompletely destroyedutterly amazedcompletely amazedutterly confusedcompletely confused
💡Pro Tip
Emphasis
Use 'utterly' to emphasize the extent of something, whether positive or negative.
📖Word Origin
From Middle English 'utterly,' from Old English 'ūte' (outside) + '-ly' (adverb suffix). Originally meant 'outside' or 'externally,' later evolved to mean 'completely.'
📝Usage Notes
Can be used to intensify both positive and negative statements. Often used in formal and informal contexts.
Word Breakdown
utter
complete or entire
root-ly
adverb suffix
suffixEnglish Dictionary