officially
- 01 B1 Intermediate
in a formal way, usually by a person in authority or according to the law.
in a formal or authorised manner; according to established rules or public declaration.
Simple“The new library was officially opened by the mayor yesterday morning.”
In context“Although the two companies had been collaborating for months, the merger was only officially announced to the press this morning.”
UsageTypically modifies verbs related to communication or starting a process.
Antonyms - 02 B2 Upper Intermediate
used to say that something is now definitely true or has really happened.
used as an intensifier to confirm that a situation or state has reached a definitive point.
Simple“It is officially too cold to go outside without a heavy coat.”
In context“After three hours of waiting in the rain for the bus, I am officially done with this city.”
Teacher's tipThis sense is common in spoken English to add emphasis to a personal opinion or a frustrating situation.
Synonyms
Usage officially declared · officially in drought · officially known
From official + -ly.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.