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Clerically Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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clerically

[ˈklɛrɪkli ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adverb

office work

The term 'clerically' refers to tasks or responsibilities performed in a clerical manner, typically involving office functions such as data entry, filing, or maintaining records. It implies a level of routine, administrative work that is essential for the smooth operation of an organization. Clerical tasks often require attention to detail and organizational skills. This term is commonly used in business environments where paperwork and documentation are important.

Synonyms

administratively, bureaucratically, officially.

Examples of usage

  • She works clerically in the administration department.
  • The files were organized clerically by date.
  • His position involves clerically managing customer accounts.
  • They completed the clerically required tasks ahead of the deadline.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Historical Context

  • Clerical work became prominent during the Renaissance when record-keeping became essential for businesses and governments.
  • The invention of the typewriter in the 19th century revolutionized clerical tasks, making it faster to produce documents.

Pop Culture

  • In popular media, clerical characters often appear in roles that highlight their organizational skills, such as secretaries or administrative assistants.
  • Movies like 'Office Space' and 'The Devil Wears Prada' showcase the often humorous or dramatic facets of clerical work.

Technology

  • With the rise of digital technology, clerical work has shifted from paper-based tasks to computer-based operations, impacting how records are managed today.
  • Software programs designed for clerical tasks, like spreadsheets and databases, have significantly improved efficiency in offices.

Psychology

  • Research shows that individuals in clerical roles often experience high levels of job stress due to repetitive tasks and deadlines.
  • Organizational skills associated with clerical work can enhance one's ability to multitask and manage time effectively.

Origin of 'clerically'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from 'cleric,' which means a person who is part of the clergy or does religious work. It evolved to mean people who handle formal documents.
  • Originally, the roles associated with 'clerical' work were often filled by men and women who could read and write well, especially in the medieval period.

The word 'clerically' is derived from 'clerical', which traces back to the Latin word 'clericalis', meaning 'of a clerk'. Originally, it referred to individuals in the service of the church, who were tasked with writing and maintaining records. As the responsibilities of clerks expanded, especially during the rise of bureaucratic institutions in the Middle Ages, 'clerical' came to denote any office-related tasks. The adverb form 'clerically' developed to describe the manner in which these clerical tasks are executed. Over time, the term has transcended its religious origins and is now widely used in both public and private sectors to describe various administrative functions.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #39,888, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.