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Powerfully Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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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.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

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.

Origin of 'powerfully'

Main points about word origin

  • 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.

The word 'powerfully' originates from the Middle English word 'powerfulliche', which is derived from the Old French word 'puissant'. It has been used in the English language for centuries to describe actions or qualities done with strength, force, or influence.

See also: empower, overpower, overpowered, overpowering, powered, powerful, powerhouse, powering, powerless, powerlessly, powerlessness, powerplant, powers, superpower.

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.