Words / B1

abs-uh-LOOTL-ee/ˌæbsəˈluːtli/

Use absolutely to stress that something is completely true, or to agree strongly: absolutely sure; absolutely essential; Absolutely! as a short reply. Completely and totally are close; very is weaker and does not always fit before adjectives like essential. Pair it with the verb or adjective, not with a noun: we say an absolute rule, not “an absolutely rule”. In exams and emails it often marks strong agreement or a strong opinion, not a new fact.

Meaning

Completely; used to emphasise that something is true.

Examples

• “I absolutely agree with your decision.”
• “The training is absolutely essential before you use the machine.”
• ““Can you cover my shift?” — “Absolutely.””

Good to know

absolutely + adjective / verb. Short agreement: Absolutely! Noun phrase uses absolute, not absolutely.

Near in meaning

completely, totally

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