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Proverbially: meaning, definitions and examples

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proverbially

 

[ prəˈvɜːrbɪəli ]

Adverb
Context #1 | Adverb

figurative expression

Proverbially refers to an expression or idea that is widely known and often cited, typically in the form of a proverb. It signifies that a statement or situation is generally accepted as truth based on common experience or wisdom. This term is commonly used to highlight the proverbial nature of a statement, implying that it represents a greater truth or universal experience. Using proverbially emphasizes the metaphorical significance of the saying.

Synonyms

figuratively, metaphorically, symbolically.

Examples of usage

  • She was proverbially late to every meeting.
  • He is proverbially a jack-of-all-trades.
  • Proverbially, time heals all wounds.
  • Proverbially speaking, what goes around comes around.

Translations

Translations of the word "proverbially" in other languages:

🇵🇹 proverbialmente

🇮🇳 उदाहरण के लिए

🇩🇪 sprichwörtlich

🇮🇩 secara peribahasa

🇺🇦 прислівно

🇵🇱 przysłowiowo

🇯🇵 ことわざ的に

🇫🇷 proverbialement

🇪🇸 proverbialmente

🇹🇷 atasözü gibi

🇰🇷 속담적으로

🇸🇦 بشكل مثالي

🇨🇿 příslovně

🇸🇰 príslovne

🇨🇳 寓言式地

🇸🇮 pripovedno

🇮🇸 orðtakalega

🇰🇿 мақал ретінде

🇬🇪 მიმდინარე

🇦🇿 məsələn

🇲🇽 proverbialmente

Etymology

The word 'proverbially' is derived from the noun 'proverb,' which itself comes from the Latin 'proverbium,' meaning 'proverb, or common saying.' This Latin term is a combination of 'pro,' meaning 'for' or 'in favor of,' and 'verbium,' the neuter form of 'verbum,' which means 'word.' The transformation into English occurred in the late Middle Ages. The adverb form 'proverbially' was established to express the concept pertaining to proverbs or widely accepted truths. Over time, it has evolved to not only refer to traditional sayings but also to indicate instances when something is commonly understood or acknowledged, especially in a metaphorical sense. As language develops, the usage of 'proverbially' has expanded in various contexts, making it a versatile term.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,656, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.