Powerfully: meaning, definitions and examples

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powerfully

 

[ˈpaʊərfʊli ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adverb

in a strong and forceful manner

Powerfully is defined as doing something with strength or force.

Synonyms

forcefully, strongly, vigorously.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
powerfully

This word is best used when referring to something that has a great deal of physical or metaphorical strength or impact.

  • He spoke powerfully about the need for change
  • The machine operates powerfully, able to crush stones easily
strongly

This word can be used in a broader range of situations, often describing how intensely or firmly something is done or felt.

  • She feels strongly about animal rights
  • The medicine has a strongly bitter taste
forcefully

Use 'forcefully' when you want to describe something done with a lot of force or determination, often with a sense of urgency or firmness.

  • She argued her point forcefully during the debate
  • He was removed from the room forcefully
vigorously

Best used when describing actions carried out with a lot of energy, effort, or enthusiasm.

  • He shook hands vigorously with everyone in the room
  • They scrubbed the floor vigorously to remove the stains

Examples of usage

  • She spoke powerfully at the conference, captivating the audience.
  • The athlete swung the bat powerfully, hitting the ball out of the park.
Context #2 | Adverb

in a way that is impressive or influential

Powerfully can also mean in a way that is impressive or influential.

Synonyms

effectively, impressively, influentially.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
powerfully

Used to describe something done with great strength or intensity.

  • He spoke powerfully about the need for change
  • The athlete ran powerfully through the finish line
impressively

Used to describe actions or objects that cause admiration due to their grand or remarkable nature.

  • The magician performed the trick impressively
  • He solved the complex problem impressively fast
influentially

Used when someone or something has a significant impact on others or on events.

  • She spoke influentially, swaying the opinions of many
  • The artist's work spoke influentially to a generation
effectively

Used when something achieves the desired results efficiently and successfully.

  • She managed the team effectively
  • The medicine worked effectively to reduce the pain

Examples of usage

  • The novel's message resonated powerfully with readers around the world.
  • The CEO's speech impacted the company's direction powerfully.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from 'power,' which originates from the Latin word 'potere' meaning 'to be able.'
  • The suffix '-fully' implies being full of something, which in this case enhances the strength or intensity of the word.
  • It first appeared in English around the 14th century, relating to the strength of action or duty.

Psychology

  • Research shows that using 'powerful' language can increase perceived authority in conversations.
  • Strong emotional expressions can lead to more persuasive communication, impacting negotiations or leadership scenarios.
  • Studies suggest that displaying confidence (and using assertive language) can influence the outcome of social interactions.

Literature

  • Many famous speeches in history utilize 'powerful' language to evoke strong emotions (e.g., Martin Luther King Jr.'s speeches).
  • Classic literature, like Shakespeare's works, often contrasts powerfully between characters to heighten drama and conflict.
  • Authors use vivid imagery with powerful adjectives to strengthen their narrative impact and engage readers.

Science

  • In physics, the term 'power' is defined as the rate at which work is done, often measured in watts.
  • A powerful force in natural events, such as hurricanes, can be quantified by the energy produced and its effects on the environment.
  • In electrical engineering, devices are classified as powerful based on their ability to generate large amounts of energy efficiently.

Pop Culture

  • Songs often describe powerful emotions, resonating with listeners through strong beats and lyrics (e.g., Whitney Houston's 'I Will Always Love You').
  • Superhero films frequently depict power dynamics, emphasizing how characters use their abilities to influence the world around them.
  • Reality shows sometimes portray the effects of powerful personalities, affecting group dynamics and viewer engagement.

Translations

Translations of the word "powerfully" in other languages:

🇵🇹 poderosamente

🇮🇳 शक्तिशाली ढंग से

🇩🇪 kraftvoll

🇮🇩 dengan kuat

🇺🇦 могутньо

🇵🇱 potężnie

🇯🇵 強力に

🇫🇷 puissamment

🇪🇸 poderosamente

🇹🇷 güçlü bir şekilde

🇰🇷 강력하게

🇸🇦 بقوة

🇨🇿 mocně

🇸🇰 mocne

🇨🇳 强有力地

🇸🇮 močno

🇮🇸 máttuglega

🇰🇿 қуатты түрде

🇬🇪 ძლიერად

🇦🇿 güclü şəkildə

🇲🇽 poderosamente

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #11,337, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.