Thoroughly: meaning, definitions and examples

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thoroughly

 

[ˈθʌrəli ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adverb

adverb

in a thorough or complete manner

Synonyms

absolutely, completely, entirely, fully.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
thoroughly

Used to describe something done with great care, detail, and attention.

  • She cleaned the room thoroughly
  • The report was thoroughly checked
completely

Used to describe something that is total or finished, without anything missing.

  • The task was completely finished
  • She was completely unaware of the situation
fully

Used to describe something done to the full or maximum extent.

  • The tank is fully loaded
  • He is fully prepared for the exam
entirely

Used to emphasize that something is whole and not lacking any parts.

  • The project was entirely successful
  • I am entirely satisfied with the outcome
absolutely

Used to intensify a statement to show strong agreement or total absence of doubt.

  • I am absolutely sure about my decision
  • The movie was absolutely fantastic

Examples of usage

  • He thoroughly enjoyed the concert.
  • She searched the house thoroughly but couldn't find her keys.
  • I thoroughly approve of your decision to study abroad.
Context #2 | Adjective

adjective

extremely attentive to accuracy and detail; painstaking

Synonyms

comprehensive, detailed, meticulous, rigorous.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
thoroughly

Use this when you want to express that something has been done with great care and completeness.

  • She cleaned the house thoroughly before the guests arrived.
  • Please read the instructions thoroughly.
meticulous

This fits situations where tasks are performed with extreme attention to small details. It often implies a high degree of precision and care.

  • She is known for her meticulous research.
  • He painted the model with meticulous care.
detailed

Ideal for describing information or a description that includes many small parts or aspects.

  • The witness gave a detailed account of the event.
  • A detailed map of the city can be very helpful for tourists.
rigorous

Best used when something is very thorough, exhaustive, and accurate, often with a connotation of strictness and precision.

  • The new drug has undergone rigorous testing.
  • The professor is known for his rigorous grading standards.
comprehensive

This is suitable when describing something that covers all or nearly all elements or aspects.

  • The report provided a comprehensive analysis of the market.
  • They offer a comprehensive range of services.

Examples of usage

  • He is known for his thorough research methods.
  • The thorough examination revealed the true cause of the issue.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • Originates from Old English 'þurh', which means 'through'. This shows a sense of going all the way.
  • The word has been part of the English language since the 14th century, evolving to include meanings of completeness.
  • Related words include 'through' and 'thoroughfare', indicating a path that covers everything.

Psychology

  • Thoroughness in tasks can enhance memory retention, as the brain processes detailed information more effectively.
  • People who approach tasks thoroughly often exhibit lower anxiety levels, as they feel more prepared.
  • Studies suggest that completing tasks thoroughly can contribute to a sense of accomplishment, boosting self-esteem.

Literature

  • Many classic authors, such as Charles Dickens, created thorough narratives that explore characters in depth.
  • Thoroughly developed characters often resonate more with readers, displaying complexities that reflect real human behavior.
  • In academic writing, thoroughness is essential for crafting strong arguments and supporting evidence.

Science

  • In scientific research, thorough methodology ensures valid and reliable results, which is crucial for future studies.
  • Peer review processes require a thorough evaluation of research to maintain academic standards.
  • Thorough testing in laboratories ensures safety and efficacy before products are released to the public.

Education

  • Teachers often emphasize the importance of thoroughness in homework assignments to ensure understanding of material.
  • Studying thoroughly helps students connect concepts better, leading to improved performance in exams.
  • Thorough note-taking strategies are taught to help students retain and recall information effectively.

Translations

Translations of the word "thoroughly" in other languages:

🇵🇹 completamente

🇮🇳 पूरी तरह से

🇩🇪 gründlich

🇮🇩 dengan teliti

🇺🇦 ретельно

🇵🇱 dokładnie

🇯🇵 徹底的に

🇫🇷 à fond

🇪🇸 a fondo

🇹🇷 tamamen

🇰🇷 철저히

🇸🇦 بدقة

🇨🇿 důkladně

🇸🇰 dôkladne

🇨🇳 彻底地

🇸🇮 temeljito

🇮🇸 ítarlega

🇰🇿 мұқият

🇬🇪 სრულად

🇦🇿 tamamilə

🇲🇽 a fondo

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,483, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.