Bodily Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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bodily

[ˈbɒdɪli ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

health

Relating to the body, physical.

Synonyms

corporal, physical, somatic.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
bodily	Used when referring to the entire body or general physical state, often in medical or health-related contexts. She suffered bodily injuries in the car accident The sport requires a lot of bodily strength
physical	Used in everyday language to refer to anything related to the body's physical state, excluding abstract or emotional states. He is in excellent physical condition Physical exercise is important for maintaining health
corporal	Typically used in legal, military, or disciplinary contexts to describe physical punishment. Corporal punishment is banned in many schools The military has strict rules against corporal punishment
somatic	Primarily used in medical or biological contexts to refer to the body, especially as distinct from the mind or the psyche. The patient exhibited several somatic symptoms Somatic therapy focuses on the connection between the body and mind

Examples of usage

He suffered from various bodily ailments.
She needed to engage in regular bodily exercises to stay fit.
The doctor recommended a full check-up to assess his bodily functions.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

law

Involving the physical presence of a person.

Synonyms

corporeal, physical.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
bodily	Use when referring to the physical body, especially in contexts involving movement or injury. She suffered from bodily harm in the accident. He lifted the heavy box using his bodily strength.
physical	Use in a broad range of contexts to describe anything related to the body or physical properties, often used in contrast with mental or emotional aspects. She started a physical exercise routine. The doctor performed a physical examination.
corporeal	Use in a more formal or academic context to describe the physical, material body as opposed to the spiritual or intangible. The philosopher discussed corporeal versus spiritual existence. The ghost lacked a corporeal form.

Word

Description / Examples

bodily

Use when referring to the physical body, especially in contexts involving movement or injury.

She suffered from bodily harm in the accident.
He lifted the heavy box using his bodily strength.

physical

Use in a broad range of contexts to describe anything related to the body or physical properties, often used in contrast with mental or emotional aspects.

She started a physical exercise routine.
The doctor performed a physical examination.

corporeal

Use in a more formal or academic context to describe the physical, material body as opposed to the spiritual or intangible.

The philosopher discussed corporeal versus spiritual existence.
The ghost lacked a corporeal form.

Examples of usage

The judge ordered a bodily search of the suspect.
The suspect's bodily fluids were collected for evidence.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'bodily'

The word 'bodily' originated from the Middle English word 'bodili', which came from the Old English 'bodig', meaning 'body'. It has been used in English since the 14th century to describe things related to the physical body or physical presence.

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,549 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.

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5546 centered
5547 intact
5548 practitioners
5549 bodily
5550 interpretations
5551 observers
5552 basically
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