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Perfectly Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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perfectly

[หˆpษœหfษชktli ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adverb

in a flawless manner

In a perfect or flawless way; without any errors or faults.

Synonyms

excellently, flawlessly, impeccably.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
perfectly

Use when describing something done with no flaws, often in everyday situations or common tasks.

  • She performed the song perfectly
  • The cake turned out perfectly
flawlessly

Use when emphasizing the absence of any mistakes or flaws, often in contexts where precision is crucial.

  • The magician performed the trick flawlessly
  • The software runs flawlessly
excellently

Use when praising someone's high-quality performance or achievement, often in professional or academic settings.

  • He did excellently on his final exams
  • She ran the company excellently for over a decade
impeccably

Use when highlighting someone's behavior, appearance or manner that is perfectly proper and without any faults.

  • She was dressed impeccably for the gala
  • He handled the negotiation impeccably

Examples of usage

  • She performed the song perfectly, hitting every note with precision.
  • He cooked the steak perfectly, it was juicy and tender.
  • The dress fit her perfectly, like it was made just for her.
Context #2 | Adverb

in a way that is completely appropriate

In a way that is entirely suitable for a particular situation.

Synonyms

adequately, appropriately, suitably.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
perfectly

Use this word when something is done without any flaws or errors, completely right. It can sometimes convey a sense of exaggeration or emphasis.

  • She painted the picture perfectly.
  • The machine is working perfectly.
appropriately

Use this word when something is done in a manner that is suitable or proper for the particular situation. It focuses on the suitability relative to circumstances.

  • She dressed appropriately for the interview.
  • He responded appropriately to the situation.
suitably

Use this word when something is done in a way that fits the purpose or conditions. It can often be used interchangeably with 'appropriately' but may have a broader application.

  • The room was suitably decorated for the party.
  • He was suitably impressed by the presentation.
adequately

Use this word when something is done to a satisfactory level, but not necessarily with excellence. It often implies just enough to meet the requirements.

  • He completed his tasks adequately.
  • The food was cooked adequately.

Examples of usage

  • She handled the difficult situation perfectly, remaining calm and focused.
  • His timing for the joke was perfect, everyone burst out laughing.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Philosophy

  • In philosophy, 'perfection' is often debated, with some thinkers arguing it's a quality that is unattainable in reality.
  • Plato's concept of forms suggested that the 'perfect' exists as an ideal, while the material world is just an imperfect representation.
  • Aristotle argued perfection is linked to fulfilling one's purpose or function optimally.

Pop Culture

  • 'Perfectly' is commonly used in songs and movies to describe love and relationships, highlighting a desire for ideal companionship.
  • Numerous social media trends emphasize presenting life 'perfectly', impacting self-image and societal standards.
  • TV shows often depict the pursuit of perfection as a theme, exploring the pressure to achieve ideal goals.

Psychology

  • The pursuit of perfection can lead to anxiety or depression, known as perfectionism, which affects many people's mental health.
  • Studies show that accepting imperfections can lead to improved well-being and happiness.
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy often addresses perfectionist thoughts by encouraging realistic self-expectations.

Science

  • In mathematics, a perfect number is defined as one that is equal to the sum of its proper divisors, like 6 and 28.
  • In physics, 'perfectly' often refers to theoretical concepts, like a 'perfectly elastic collision', which is an idealization that doesnโ€™t occur in real life.
  • The study of perfection in nature is often explored, such as the 'perfect' symmetry seen in snowflakes.

Origin of 'perfectly'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'perfectus', meaning 'completed, finished' or 'made through'.
  • In Middle English, it was spelled as 'parfit', which indicates something being whole or complete.
  • The transition to 'perfectly' in Modern English reflects the evolution of language over centuries.

The word 'perfectly' comes from the Middle English word 'parfitli', which is derived from the Old French word 'parfitement'. The Latin root 'perfectus' means 'completed, excellent, accomplished'. The adverb 'perfectly' has been used in English since the 14th century to describe actions done without any flaws or in a completely appropriate manner.

See also: imperfect, imperfection, perfect, perfecting, perfection, perfectionism, perfectionist.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,174, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.