Decoratively: meaning, definitions and examples

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decoratively

[ˈdekərətɪvli ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adverb}

used to describe an action

In a decorative manner; in a way that is intended to make something look more attractive.

Synonyms

artistically, elaborately, ornately.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
decoratively	Used when describing something that is applied to improve appearance without serving a functional purpose. The room was decorated very decoratively with flowers and balloons. Sparkles were added decoratively to the invitation cards.
ornately	Typically used when describing something that is decorated in an elaborate or intricate manner, often with rich and intricate patterns. The palace's ceilings were ornately decorated with gold and frescoes. The doors were ornately carved with floral patterns.
elaborately	Used to describe something that is detailed and complex in design or execution, often suggesting effort and intricacy. The wedding cake was decorated elaborately with intricate icing patterns. He explained the plan elaborately, leaving no detail out.
artistically	Employed when referring to something done with creativity or an artful touch, often indicating a high degree of skill or aesthetics. She arranged the flowers artistically in the vase. The mural was painted artistically, capturing the essence of the city.

Examples of usage

He painted the room decoratively, adding intricate details to the walls.
The cake was decoratively frosted with beautiful flowers and swirls.

^{Context #2 | Adverb}

used to describe speech or writing

In a way that is overly elaborate or ornate, often to the point of being excessive or distracting.

Synonyms

grandiloquently, ostentatiously, pompously.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
decoratively	Used when describing something that is done to add beauty or ornamentation but not necessarily functional. The room was arranged decoratively for the wedding The plates were set decoratively on the table
ostentatiously	Used to describe actions or things that are meant to impress others and attract attention, often implying a lack of genuine quality. This term usually has a negative connotation. She ostentatiously displayed her wealth by wearing a diamond necklace He ostentatiously parked his sports car in front of the restaurant
grandiloquently	Used when someone is speaking in a very formal or extravagant way, often to impress others. It can come across as pretentious. He spoke grandiloquently about his achievements The politician addressed the crowd grandiloquently
pompously	Used when describing someone who behaves in a self-important or arrogant manner. This term has a negative connotation. He pompously declared that he was the best candidate for the job She walked around the office pompously, as if she owned the place

Examples of usage

She spoke decoratively, using flowery language that obscured the main point.
The author's prose was so decoratively embellished that it was difficult to follow the plot.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Latin word 'decorare,' which means 'to adorn' or 'to beautify.'
It has been part of the English language since the early 17th century, reflecting a growing interest in home and personal beauty.
The suffix '-ively' changes the word to indicate a manner of doing something, transforming 'decorative' into an adverb.

Art and Design

In art, 'decoratively' often refers to styles that emphasize ornamentation, such as Baroque or Rococo period designs.
Decorative arts include crafts like pottery, textiles, and furniture, focusing not just on utility but also on aesthetics.
The use of patterns, colors, and textures in home décor is guided by principles of decorative arts.

Cultural Perspectives

Different cultures have unique ideas about decoration, with Japanese minimalism focusing on simplicity, while other cultures may prefer opulence.
Many festivals around the world involve decorative elements, from Diwali's lights to Christmas' ornaments, showcasing cultural identity.
The role of decorative motifs can often serve as a means of storytelling, reflecting traditions and beliefs through design.

Psychology

A well-decorated environment can influence mood and emotions, creating feelings of comfort and happiness.
Research indicates that colorful and aesthetically pleasing surroundings can boost creativity and productivity.
Decorative elements in spaces can also evoke nostalgia or attachment, enhancing personal sentiments about a place.

Fashion

In fashion, 'decoratively' can refer to the use of embellishments, such as sequins or embroidery, to enhance garments.
Fashion designers often play with texture and decorative details to express identity and cultural influences.
Seasonal trends often highlight certain decorative styles, like florals in spring or metallics in winter.

Translations

Translations of the word "decoratively" in other languages:

🇵🇹 decorativamente

🇮🇳 सजावटी रूप से

🇩🇪 dekorativ

🇮🇩 secara dekoratif

🇺🇦 декоративно

🇵🇱 dekoracyjnie

🇯🇵 装飾的に (そうしょくてきに)

🇫🇷 de manière décorative

🇪🇸 decorativamente

🇹🇷 dekoratif olarak

🇰🇷 장식적으로

🇸🇦 بشكل زخرفي

🇨🇿 dekorativně

🇸🇰 dekoratívne

🇨🇳 装饰性地 (zhuāngshì xìng dì)

🇸🇮 dekorativno

🇮🇸 skreytingarlega

🇰🇿 әшекейлі түрде

🇬🇪 დეკორატიულად

🇦🇿 dekorativ olaraq

🇲🇽 decorativamente

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #36,595, 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.

...
36592 describer
36593 purveyed
36594 wallflower
36595 decoratively
36596 ungratefully
36597 sufi
36598 paginated
...