Word
objectively
Phoneticsob·jec·tive·ly, stress on the second syllable
US/ɑbˈdʒɛktɪvɫi/
UK/ɒbdʒˈɛktɪvli/
Adverb of manner
Definitions
01based on facts
B2 · Upper Intermediate Academic
adv. in a way that is based on facts and not influenced by personal feelings or opinions.
adv. in an impartial or neutral manner, relying on observable facts rather than subjective interpretation.
“The judge tried to look at the evidence objectively before making a decision.”
“The historian attempted to evaluate the primary sources objectively, setting aside his own political biases to provide a balanced account of the conflict.”
Usage
Typically modifies verbs of perception, evaluation, or analysis.
Synonyms
Antonyms
02definitely or indisputably
C1 · Advanced Informal · Slang
adv. you use this to say that something is clearly true and everyone should agree with you.
adv. used to present a subjective judgment as an absolute or indisputable truth.
“That was objectively the best movie of the year.”
“While taste is usually personal, that performance was objectively the highlight of the entire festival.”
Teaching tip
In modern slang, speakers use this to emphasize a strong opinion; it is technically a contradiction of the word's formal meaning.
Synonyms
Real-World Examples
“The central myth of AI is that it functions objectively .” “This method divides the temperature record into separate periods and objectively identifies when the rate of warming appears to change.” Etymology
From objective + -ly.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
ADVERB
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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