Expressively: meaning, definitions and examples

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expressively

 

[ɪkˈsprɛsɪvli ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adverb

in speech or behavior

In a manner that conveys feelings or emotions effectively and vividly.

Synonyms

dramatically, emphatically, vividly.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
expressively

Use when describing someone conveying their feelings or thoughts in a clear and significant manner, often through gestures, voice, or facial expressions.

  • She spoke expressively, her hands moving to emphasize her points.
  • The dancer's movements were incredibly expressively.
vividly

Best used to describe something that is very clear, bright, or detailed in someone’s mind, often invoking a strong sensory impression or clear mental image.

  • She described her dream so vividly that it felt real.
  • The author vividly painted a picture of the bustling city.
emphatically

Suitably used when someone is making a statement or conveying a point with strong emotion or force to show certainty or importance.

  • She emphatically denied any involvement in the incident.
  • He nodded emphatically as he agreed with the proposal.
dramatically

Appropriate when describing something that is done in a very noticeable, theatrical, or exaggerated way. Often used in artistic performances or in the context of significant changes.

  • He dramatically threw his arms in the air when he received the news.
  • The landscape changed dramatically after the storm.

Examples of usage

  • She spoke expressively about her passion for art.
  • The actor performed expressively, bringing the character to life on stage.
Context #2 | Adverb

in music

In a way that emphasizes the musical expression and emotion.

Synonyms

emotionally, passionately, poignantly.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
expressively

Used when describing someone who is showing their thoughts, feelings, or ideas clearly and effectively, often through gestures, tone, or facial expressions.

  • She spoke expressively, using her hands to emphasize key points
emotionally

Used when referring to actions, reactions, or responses that come from strong feelings. It can indicate a heartfelt and sincere display of emotions.

  • He reacted emotionally to the news of his friend's departure, with tears filling his eyes
passionately

Suitable when describing actions done with intense enthusiasm or strong feelings. It often conveys a deep commitment and fervor toward a subject, cause, or person.

  • She spoke passionately about her love for music, her voice brimming with excitement
poignantly

Used to describe something that touches or moves people deeply, often in a sad or sorrowful way. It indicates a profound emotional impact that evokes sympathy or compassion.

  • The movie ended poignantly, leaving the audience in tears as the final scene unfolded

Examples of usage

  • The pianist played the piece expressively, capturing the audience with every note.
  • The singer performed the song expressively, conveying the depth of the lyrics.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Latin 'expressivus', which means to communicate clearly.
  • It developed into Middle English from Old French forms, blending meanings of expression and quality.
  • The suffix '-ly' indicates it's related to how something is done, enhancing the meaning of the base word.

Art and Performance

  • In theater, performers use expressive techniques to convey emotions to the audience, enhancing the storytelling.
  • Dance is often described as an expressive art form, where movements communicate feelings without words.
  • Musicians use dynamics and articulation expressively to bring pieces to life, connecting with listeners on an emotional level.

Psychology

  • Expressive communication is crucial for emotional intelligence, helping individuals articulate their feelings.
  • Research shows that people who express themselves freely tend to have better mental health and stronger relationships.
  • Non-verbal expressions, like facial expressions and gestures, significantly contribute to how effectively emotions are conveyed.

Literature

  • In poetry, expressively written verses evoke strong imagery and emotions, allowing readers to connect deeply with the text.
  • Authors like Shakespeare used expressive language to depict complex characters and themes, showing a wide range of human emotions.
  • Narrative style can also be highly expressive, where the author's voice and choices reflect their personality and emotions.

Pop Culture

  • In films, directors often use expressive cinematography, capturing emotions through camera angles and lighting.
  • Popular songs often emphasize expressiveness, using powerful lyrics and sung styles to resonate with people's feelings.
  • Dance competitions celebrate expressive performance, where contestants showcase their ability to tell a story through movement.

Translations

Translations of the word "expressively" in other languages:

🇵🇹 expressivamente

🇮🇳 अभिव्यक्तिपूर्वक

🇩🇪 ausdrucksvoll

🇮🇩 dengan ekspresif

🇺🇦 виразно

🇵🇱 ekspresyjnie

🇯🇵 表現豊かに (ひょうげんゆたかに)

🇫🇷 expressivement

🇪🇸 expresivamente

🇹🇷 ifade edici bir şekilde

🇰🇷 표현력 있게

🇸🇦 بشكل معبر

🇨🇿 výrazně

🇸🇰 výrazne

🇨🇳 富有表现力地 (fù yǒu biǎoxiàn lì de)

🇸🇮 izrazno

🇮🇸 tjást út

🇰🇿 мәнерлеп

🇬🇪 გამომხატველად

🇦🇿 ifadəli şəkildə

🇲🇽 expresivamente

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,007 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.