Downright Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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downright
[หdaสnraษชt ]
Definitions
emphasizing degree
Downright is used as an adverb to emphasize the degree or intensity of a quality or situation, often implying that it is extreme or unequivocal. It can be used in both a positive and negative context, suggesting something is completely or absolutely true. The term often indicates a level of honesty or bluntness in assessments or opinions.
Synonyms
absolutely, completely, totally.
Examples of usage
- It's downright unfair to treat people this way.
- Her performance was downright impressive.
- This is downright ridiculous.
emphasizing quality
As an adjective, downright is used to describe something as being completely or totally a certain way, often with a connotation of being straightforward or blunt about it. It conveys an unambiguous and clear quality, whether good or bad. This usage often appears in expressions that highlight something as undeniably true or apparent.
Synonyms
categorical, explicit, outright.
Examples of usage
- That was a downright lie.
- Heโs a downright good person.
- The weather was downright awful.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Language Usage
- It's often used in literature and conversation to stress the certainty or extreme nature of something.
- Writers might use 'downright' to convey strong opinions, making their statements more persuasive and emphatic.
Cultural References
- 'Downright' is frequently found in folk tales and jokes, highlighting exaggerated truths (e.g., 'That story is downright funny!').
- In various songs and movies, characters use 'downright' to underscore their emotions or situations, adding a dramatic flair.
Psychological Perspective
- Using emphatic language like 'downright' can enhance interpersonal communication by clarifying the speaker's feelings.
- Research suggests that strong language can influence how seriously the message is taken by the audience.
Origin of 'downright'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from combining 'down' (to a lower place) and 'right' (correct or true), emphasizing a total situation.
- It first appeared in English texts around the early 18th century, gaining popularity for expressing strong ideas.
The word 'downright' has its origins in Middle English, deriving from the combination of 'down' and 'right.' The word 'down' has been used in English since Old English, meaning 'from a higher to a lower place,' while 'right' can be traced back to Old English 'riht,' meaning 'just' or 'straight.' The conjoining of these terms emphasizes a movement or condition that is both downward and directly so. Over time, 'downright' evolved into a term of emphasis, highlighting absolute or stark qualities of objects, actions, or characteristics. By the 18th century, 'downright' had firmly established itself in English literature and everyday speech, often used to underscore a point or to candidly convey an opinion. The usage has remained relatively stable, finding a place in both formal and informal contexts, underscoring its versatility and continued relevance in the language.