English Reference

Word

thoughtfully

Phoneticsthought·ful·ly, stress on the first syllable

US/ˈθɔtfəɫi/

UK/θˈɔːtfəli/

Definition

adv. in a way that shows you have given something a lot of care and consideration. You use this when someone acts or speaks with a purpose.

adv. in a manner that demonstrates careful consideration or deliberate intention. Often used to describe actions or speech that are well-planned or considerate of others.

Examples

“She thoughtfully packed an umbrella for the rain.”

“He thoughtfully left a note on the table to remind his colleagues about the meeting.”

“The architect thoughtfully incorporated natural light into the design, ensuring that the interior spaces remained bright and welcoming throughout the winter months.”

Examples

simple

“She thoughtfully packed an umbrella for the rain.”

contextual

“He thoughtfully left a note on the table to remind his colleagues about the meeting.”

complex

“The architect thoughtfully incorporated natural light into the design, ensuring that the interior spaces remained bright and welcoming throughout the winter months.”

Real-World Examples

“But if we want English classrooms to develop young people who can participate thoughtfully in a democracy, then the curriculum and assessment need to make that purpose visible.”
Phys.org 7 Sept 2026
“Discord told the BBC it was "thoughtfully reviewing" the ANPD's order and is "committed to user safety".”
BBC News 12 Aug 2026

Etymology

From thoughtful + -ly.

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

Word family

ADVERB

thoughtfully(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
Occasional
Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Updated

QR code

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English Reference