English Reference

Word

emphatically

Phoneticsem·phat·i·cal·ly

US/ɛmˈfætɪkəɫi/

UK/ɛmfˈætɪkli/

Definition

adv. to do or say something in a very strong and clear way. You use this when you want to show that there is no doubt about your meaning.

adv. in a forceful or determined manner that leaves no room for doubt. Often used to modify verbs of communication or decision-making.

Examples

“She emphatically denied the rumors.”

“The committee emphatically rejected the proposal, stating that it failed to meet the safety requirements.”

“When asked if he would consider a second term, the president responded emphatically in the negative, citing a desire to return to private life.”

Examples

simple

“She emphatically denied the rumors.”

contextual

“The committee emphatically rejected the proposal, stating that it failed to meet the safety requirements.”

complex

“When asked if he would consider a second term, the president responded emphatically in the negative, citing a desire to return to private life.”

Usage

Typically placed before the main verb or at the end of the clause for emphasis.

Real-World Examples

“Mamadou Sangaré emphatically won the battle of the midfield summer signings against Sandro Tonali.”
The Guardian · 22 Aug 2026
“But Foreign Minister Ablakwa emphatically rejects this narrative.”
BBC News · 16 Aug 2026

Etymology

From emphatic + -ally.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

Word family

This entry

Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency
Occasional
Updated

Scan code

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English Reference