Somewhat: meaning, definitions and examples

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somewhat

[ˈsʌmˌwʌt ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adverb}

used to indicate a partial degree or extent

To some extent, but not very great; slightly.

Synonyms

a little, partly, to some degree.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
somewhat	Use when describing a moderate amount or extent of something. It is often used in formal or neutral contexts. The movie was somewhat interesting, but not gripping. I am somewhat tired after the long journey.
a little	Use when referring to a small degree or amount of something, often in casual or conversational contexts. I'm a little hungry, let's grab a snack. She felt a little sad after saying goodbye.
to some degree	Use in formal or academic contexts to express that something is true to a certain extent but not entirely. To some degree, I agree with his analysis, although I have some reservations. She succeeded to some degree in her efforts to improve the process.
partly	Use when something is true to a certain extent but not completely. It often implies that there are other contributing factors. The project was successful partly because of the team's hard work. The sky was partly cloudy in the morning.

Examples of usage

He was somewhat surprised by the news.
She felt somewhat nervous before the interview.
The movie was somewhat entertaining, but not amazing.

^{Context #2 | Adverb}

used to indicate a vague or unspecified degree or amount

To a moderate extent or by a moderate amount.

Synonyms

fairly, moderately, reasonably.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
somewhat	Use 'somewhat' to indicate a slight degree or a little bit. It is often used when the change or difference is not very large. She looked somewhat tired after the long journey. The movie was somewhat interesting, but not as good as I expected.
moderately	Use 'moderately' to indicate a middle degree or average level. It is used in situations where something is neither too much nor too little, but just balanced. She was moderately successful in her new job. The food was moderately spicy, which was just right for me.
reasonably	Use 'reasonably' to indicate that something is done or achieved to a satisfactory level, based on realistic expectations. It often carries a note of practicality. The project was reasonably priced for its quality. He is reasonably confident that he will get the job.
fairly	Use 'fairly' to indicate a moderate degree or to a reasonable extent. It often suggests that something is above average but not exceptional. He did fairly well on the test. The weather has been fairly warm this week.

Examples of usage

The project is somewhat challenging, but manageable.
I feel somewhat better after resting for a while.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

'Somewhat' originated in Middle English as 'sumwhat,' combining 'some' and 'what' to express vagueness.
The word has been used since the 14th century, showing that language can evolve while maintaining similar sounds.
Its use reflects a way to express moderation, indicating neither complete agreement nor total disagreement.

Grammar

'Somewhat' functions as an adverb, often modifying adjectives or other adverbs to indicate a mild extent.
In writing, it helps create a softer tone, making statements feel less absolute and more nuanced.
Sentences including this word can convey uncertainty or partiality, enriching communication.

Psychology

Using this term can indicate ambivalence, as it reflects a person’s hesitance to fully commit to a feeling or opinion.
Studies have shown that vague modifiers like 'somewhat' can influence decision-making by creating space for ambiguity.
Language filled with qualifiers can lead to less confrontation in conversations, fostering a more cooperative dialogue.

Literature

This word often appears in literary works to convey nuanced feelings, making characters more relatable and complex.
Authors use it to provide layers to their narratives, allowing readers to interpret emotions in varying degrees.
In poetry, 'somewhat' helps create a rhythm and flow, enabling contrasts between certainty and uncertainty.

Cultural Usage

In different dialects of English, the frequency and style of using this term can vary, enlightening cultural perspectives on communication.
Expressions containing 'somewhat' are frequently found in formal writing and academic contexts, where precision and modesty are valued.
It reflects the wider cultural tendency toward politeness, allowing speakers to soften their statements and avoid sounding too blunt.

Translations

Translations of the word "somewhat" in other languages:

🇵🇹 um pouco

🇮🇳 कुछ हद तक

🇩🇪 etwas

🇮🇩 agak

🇺🇦 дещо

🇵🇱 nieco

🇯🇵 やや

🇫🇷 quelque peu

🇪🇸 algo

🇹🇷 biraz

🇰🇷 다소

🇸🇦 إلى حد ما

🇨🇿 poněkud

🇸🇰 trochu

🇨🇳 有点

🇸🇮 nekako

🇮🇸 nokkuð

🇰🇿 шамасы

🇬🇪 რამდენიმე

🇦🇿 bir qədər

🇲🇽 algo

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #1,038, this word is part of core intermediate vocabulary. It appears regularly in various contexts and is essential for natural-sounding English.

...
1035 changed
1036 conduct
1037 stood
1038 somewhat
1039 sample
1040 removed
1041 successful
...