ENGLISH
REFERENCE

willfully

adv. manner
C1 Advanced US //ˈwɪɫfəɫi// will·ful·ly

adv. to do something on purpose, especially when you know it is wrong or against the rules. You use this when someone refuses to change their mind even if it causes problems.

adv. done with deliberate intent or determination, often in a way that is stubborn or contrary to legal or moral standards. Frequently used in legal contexts to describe intentional non-compliance.


SIMPLE

He willfully ignored the warning signs on the gate.

CONTEXTUAL

The company was fined for willfully neglecting safety regulations despite multiple warnings from inspectors.

COMPLEX

The defendant was found to have willfully withheld evidence that would have clarified the timeline of events, leading the judge to issue a stern reprimand for obstructing the judicial process.

Synonyms
Origin

From willful + -ly.

Usage

Typically placed before the verb it modifies or at the end of the clause.

Pitfall

He wilfuly did itHe willfully did itIn American English, the word is spelled with a double 'l' in the middle (willfully), while British English often uses a single 'l' (wilfully).

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