permanently
- 01 B2 Upper Intermediate
in a way that lasts forever or for a very long time.
in a manner that is intended to remain unchanged or to exist indefinitely.
Simple“The accident left him permanently unable to walk, so he had to use a wheelchair.”
In context“The treaty was designed to permanently alter the geopolitical landscape of the region, ensuring that no further border disputes could arise.”
UsageUsually placed after the verb it modifies or at the end of the clause.
PitfallHe is permanent living in London. He is permanently living in London.Use the adverb 'permanently' to describe how someone lives or where something is located, not the adjective 'permanent'.
SynonymsAntonyms
Usage permanently shadowed
“The eclipse in 1999 left many people concerned they had permanently damaged their eyes.”
“Looking at the eclipse without eye protection can permanently damage your eyes.”
From Middle English permanently; equivalent to permanent + -ly.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.