Understanding the Word "Completely"
When you want to describe a situation that is total, absolute, or finished, the word completely is your go-to adverb. It acts as a powerful intensifier, leaving no room for doubt about the extent of an action or state. Whether you are describing a task that is finished from start to finish or a feeling that takes over your entire mind, completely helps you emphasize that there is nothing left to add or subtract.
Origins and Meaning
The word completely finds its roots in the Latin word completus, which literally means "to fill up." This history perfectly mirrors how we use the word today. When something is completely filled, it is full to the brim, with no empty space remaining. In modern English, we use it to describe something that is "entirely" or "wholly" the case.
There are two primary ways we apply this meaning:
- To finish something entirely: This implies that a process has been taken from the beginning to the very end. "I have completely finished my homework," means there is not a single question left unanswered.
- To describe a state of being: This emphasizes the intensity or totality of an adjective. "The situation was completely unexpected," suggests that there was zero expectation for that event to occur.
Grammar and Usage Patterns
As an adverb, completely is versatile and usually modifies adjectives, verbs, or other adverbs. It is most commonly placed before the word it modifies to intensify the meaning.
Modifying Adjectives
When used before an adjective, it highlights the absolute nature of that quality:
- The instructions were completely unclear.
- She felt completely exhausted after the marathon.
- That sounds like a completely ridiculous idea!
Modifying Verbs
When used with a verb, it describes the scope of an action:
- The fire completely destroyed the old warehouse.
- I completely forgot about our appointment today.
- The change in management completely altered how the company functions.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even advanced English learners sometimes struggle with the placement and nuance of completely. Here are a few things to watch out for:
Overuse: Because it is such a strong word, using it in every sentence can make your writing feel repetitive. Use it when you really need to emphasize that something is absolute. If you use it for every small detail, it loses its impact.
Redundancy: Avoid using completely with adjectives that are already absolute. For example, if something is "empty," it cannot be "more empty." Therefore, saying "the room was completely empty" is acceptable for emphasis, but saying "the room was completely unique" is logically redundant, as something is either unique or it is not.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is "completely" the same as "totally"?
In most contexts, yes. Completely and totally are often interchangeable as intensifiers. However, completely often feels slightly more formal or precise when discussing the completion of a task.
Can I use "completely" to modify a noun?
No, completely is an adverb, so it should modify verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs. If you want to modify a noun, you should use an adjective like complete (e.g., "a complete disaster").
Is it okay to start a sentence with "completely"?
Yes, starting a sentence with completely is a great way to add emphasis. For example: "Completely shocked, she couldn't find the words to respond."
Conclusion
Mastering the word completely allows you to express yourself with greater clarity and conviction. By understanding that it signifies a state of being "filled up" or finished to the maximum extent, you can use it to add meaningful weight to your sentences. Whether you are writing a formal report or having a casual conversation, completely is a reliable tool to ensure your message is understood with the absolute intensity you intended.