Naturally Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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naturally

[ˈnætʃərəli ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adverb

in a natural manner

In a natural way, without artificial aid or interference.

Synonyms

instinctively, organically, spontaneously.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
naturally

Used to describe something that occurs as expected or without artificial intervention. It often implies something that happens in its natural state or form.

  • She naturally attracts people with her kindness
  • The flowers bloomed naturally in the garden
organically

Refers to something developing in a natural and gradual way without external pressure or synthetic influence. Also used in the context of farming or products produced without chemicals.

  • Their friendship grew organically over the years
  • She prefers to eat organically grown vegetables
spontaneously

Describes actions done in a sudden, unplanned, or impulsive manner. Often implies an element of surprise or unpredictability.

  • He spontaneously decided to go on a road trip
  • The audience spontaneously erupted into applause
instinctively

Used to describe actions driven by instinct or a gut feeling, often without conscious thought or reasoning.

  • He instinctively ducked when he saw the ball coming
  • Mothers tend to instinctively protect their children

Examples of usage

  • She was naturally gifted in music.
  • He spoke naturally without any hesitation.
  • The flowers grew naturally in the wild.
Context #2 | Adverb

of course

Used to confirm something that is expected or obvious.

Synonyms

certainly, obviously, of course.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
naturally

Ideal for emphasizing something that is expected or happens according to the nature of things.

  • Naturally, plants grow towards the sunlight
  • She is naturally talented in music
of course

Commonly utilized to agree with something or point out that it is generally understood or expected.

  • Of course I will attend your wedding
  • Winning the championship was important, of course
obviously

Perfect for stating something that is very clear to everyone; sometimes can be used with slight negative connotation if implying that the information should already be known.

  • Obviously, we need to finish the report by tomorrow
  • He was obviously upset by the news
certainly

Best used to express strong agreement or affirmation.

  • I will certainly help you with your project
  • The team certainly deserves this victory

Examples of usage

  • Naturally, he was the first one to arrive at the party.
  • Naturally, she would be upset after hearing the news.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In biology, the term describes processes that occur without human intervention, like the growth of plants or animals in their ecosystems.
  • Natural selection, a key concept in evolution, describes how species evolve over time naturally, adapting to their environment.
  • Chemistry often distinguishes between natural and synthetic substances, with the former being derived directly from nature.

Culture

  • In wellness culture, the term is often associated with organic foods and lifestyles that emphasize living in harmony with nature.
  • Fashion trends such as eco-friendly clothing choices are often marketed as naturally better for the planet.
  • In art, 'naturally' can refer to styles that mimic or draw inspiration from the natural world, celebrating real beauty in simplicity.

Philosophy

  • Thoughts on what is considered 'natural' have shaped many philosophical discussions on morality and the essence of being.
  • Existentialists often argue that embracing 'naturally' occurring emotions and experiences leads to authenticity.
  • The idea of natural rights stems from the belief that certain rights are inherent and not granted by laws, emphasizing a natural order.

Literature

  • In literature, authors often explore themes of natural beauty and human connection to the environment.
  • Poets like Wordsworth celebrated the beauty of nature, highlighting its ability to inspire genuine emotion.
  • Naturalism as a literary movement focused on the idea that human behavior is influenced by environment, heredity, and social conditions.

Origin of 'naturally'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'naturalis', meaning 'of nature', showing how it relates to the real world.
  • Old French adopted it as 'naturel', which also means connected with nature, emphasizing its roots in describing the natural world.
  • The suffix '-ly' makes it an adverb, indicating that something occurs in a natural manner.

The word 'naturally' originated from the Middle English word 'nat(u)ralliche', which was derived from the Old French word 'naturellement'. It has been used in the English language since the 14th century. The term 'naturally' emphasizes the idea of something being in accordance with the natural order of things or occurring without artificial intervention.


See also: natural, nature, supernaturally.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,180, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.