Words / B1

k-uh-m-PLEETL-ee/kəmˈpliːtli/

Completely means in every way; totally. Complete is the adjective/verb (already in the dictionary). Totally is a close twin; quite can mean “fairly” in UK English, so it is not a safe synonym. Printer jam: the paper was completely blank.

Meaning

In every way; totally.

Examples

• “The paper was completely blank after the printer jam.”
• “The street was completely closed, not partly, during the gas leak.”

Good to know

completely + adjective / verb. Close: totally. Adjective: complete. Mix-up: quite (often weaker in UK). Exams / emergency closures.

Near in meaning

totally

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