English Reference

Word

passionately

Phoneticspas·sion·ate·ly, stress on the first syllable

US/ˈpæʃənətɫi/

UK/pˈæʃənətli/

Adverb of manner

Definition

adv. in a way that shows very strong feelings or beliefs. You use this when you care deeply about something.

adv. in a manner characterized by intense emotion, strong belief, or great enthusiasm.

Examples

“She speaks passionately about her work.”

“The two scientists argued passionately about the results of the experiment for over an hour.”

“He defended his artistic choices passionately, refusing to compromise even when the critics suggested that his style was no longer in fashion.”

Examples

simple

“She speaks passionately about her work.”

contextual

“The two scientists argued passionately about the results of the experiment for over an hour.”

complex

“He defended his artistic choices passionately, refusing to compromise even when the critics suggested that his style was no longer in fashion.”

Usage

Manner adverb — typically follows the verb it modifies or the direct object.

Real-World Examples

“The foreign secretary passionately argued that the UK did have agency and could act – and to do nothing would amount to failure.”
BBC News 8 Sept 2026
“Hansi Flick wants a team that defends high and passionately so he can shine.”
BBC News 7 Sept 2026

Etymology

From passionate + -ly.

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

Word family

ADVERB

passionately(B2)

This entry

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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English Reference