absolutely
gb/ˌæbsəlˈutli/ us/ˌæbsəlˈutli/
A2
English
~ 1700
Senses
0 senses
adverb
A2
property
1
Completely; totally
Used to say something is 100% true or complete.
Usage pattern:
absolutely [adjective]
Common mistake:
Learners sometimes use 'absolutely' with adjectives that don't express extreme qualities, which can sound unnatural (e.g., 'absolutely good' instead of 'absolutely fantastic').
Synonyms
completely (Neutral synonym; interchangeable in most contexts but less emphatic.)
|
totally (Very close in meaning, often slightly more informal.)
Antonyms
partially (Indicates only part of something is true, the opposite of fully or completely.)
Collocations
absolutely certain
|absolutely necessary
|absolutely true
|absolutely essential
|absolutely clear
Themes
daily life
|emphasis
|communication
|core_vocabulary
Examples
- I am absolutely sure this is the right address.
- This offer is absolutely free for all members.
- She was absolutely certain she had locked the door.
- The room was absolutely silent after the announcement.
- It is absolutely essential that you wear a helmet.
Learner examples
- I am absolutely happy today.
- This story is absolutely true.
- He is absolutely right about the answer.
- It is absolutely safe to drink this water.
adverb
informal
A2
action
2
Strongly yes; definitely
Used to say 'yes' in a strong way.
Common mistake:
Learners sometimes confuse this use with the meaning of 'completely', leading to unclear responses.
Synonyms
definitely (Similar meaning but slightly less emphatic in tone.)
|
certainly (Politer and slightly more formal than 'absolutely'.)
Antonyms
no way (Informal emphatic refusal, opposite of strong agreement.)
Collocations
Absolutely not
|Absolutely yes
Themes
conversation
|agreement
|communication
|core_vocabulary
Examples
- 'Are you coming to the party?' 'Absolutely!'
- 'Do you think we should start now?' 'Absolutely.'
- 'Would you recommend this restaurant?' 'Absolutely!'
Learner examples
- 'Do you like pizza?' 'Absolutely!'
- 'Can I borrow your pen?' 'Absolutely.'
- 'Should we go now?' 'Absolutely!'
adverb
B1
property
3
Without restriction or limitation
Without any limits or rules.
Synonyms
unconditionally (Formal equivalent, often used in legal or serious contexts.)
Antonyms
conditionally (Indicates something applies only under certain circumstances, opposite of unconditional.)
Collocations
absolutely free
|absolutely forbidden
Themes
rules
|freedom
|core_vocabulary
Examples
- The service is absolutely free of charge.
- Leaving the premises after dark is absolutely forbidden.
- The rights are absolutely guaranteed by law.
Learner examples
- The meal is absolutely free.
- This area is absolutely safe.
- That action is absolutely not allowed.
Grammar
Dictionary form
absolutely
IPA
GB/ˌæbsəlˈutli/
US/ˌæbsəlˈutli/
Syllables & stress
ab - so - lutely (3 syllables)
Stress on 3rd syllable (lutely)
Word forms
Noun
- Base: absolutely
- Plural: absolutelies
Word family
Forms
absolutelies
noun
Core family
absolute
adjective B2
Negative and opposite forms
relative
adjective A2
relatively
adverb B1
Advanced or less common
absoluteness
noun
absolutism
noun
absolutist
noun
Expressions
absolutely necessary
1/ˌæbsəlˈutli nˈɛsɪsˌɛɹi/
fixed phrase
Completely required; essential
Needed very much; cannot be avoided.
Examples
- It is absolutely necessary to wear protective gear.
- A passport is absolutely necessary for international travel.
absolutely not
1/ˌæbsəlˈutli nˈɑt/
fixed phrase
Strongly refuse or disagree
Used to say 'no' in a strong way.
Examples
- 'Can I borrow your car?' 'Absolutely not!'
- 'Do you agree with this idea?' 'Absolutely not.'
absolutely sure
1/ˌæbsəlˈutli ʃˈʊɹ/
fixed phrase
Completely certain about something
Very sure; having no doubt.
Examples
- I am absolutely sure we locked the door.
- She is absolutely sure about her decision.