Totally Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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totally
[ˈtoʊ.təl.i ]
Definitions
general
Completely and absolutely; in every way or respect.
Synonyms
absolutely, completely, entirely, fully, wholly.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| totally |
Used in informal conversations to emphasize something or show agreement.
|
| completely |
Used to describe something that is done in full or to express totality, often in a formal manner.
|
| absolutely |
Used to give strong affirmatives or when you want to emphasize that there's no doubt.
|
| entirely |
Used to emphasize that something is fully and without exception in a particular way, often in formal or written contexts.
|
| wholly |
Used to emphasize completeness in a formal or literary manner.
|
| fully |
Used to indicate that something is done to the fullest extent or degree.
|
Examples of usage
- I totally agree with you.
- She was totally unprepared for the exam.
- He totally nailed the presentation.
- We totally forgot about the meeting.
- They were totally surprised by the news.
colloquial
Used for emphasis or to convey a sense of certainty or agreement.
Synonyms
absolutely, certainly, definitely, for sure, indeed.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| totally |
Use in informal conversations to express strong agreement or complete extent of something.
|
| absolutely |
Emphasize agreement or strong conviction, often in formal situations.
|
| definitely |
Strong assertion or agreement with a hint of emphasis, suitable for informal and semi-formal contexts.
|
| certainly |
Express a high degree of certainty or politeness, often formal or semi-formal.
|
| indeed |
Formal affirmation, often used to add emphasis or confirm a previous statement.
|
| for sure |
Casual affirmation or agreement, commonly used in informal speech.
|
Examples of usage
- I totally understand what you mean.
- She totally deserves that promotion.
- He's totally coming to the party.
- We're totally going to win the game.
- They're totally the best team in the league.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Pop Culture
- The phrase 'totally awesome' became a popular slang expression in the 1980s, showcasing the word's use in expressing enthusiasm.
- Famous for its casual use in teen films and television shows, becoming synonymous with a carefree, laid-back lifestyle.
- In modern internet communication, 'totally' is often used for emphasis in memes and social media, like 'I am totally here for this!'
Linguistics
- 'Totally' is an adverb, but its versatility allows it to modify adjectives and verbs, making it a favorite in casual dialogue.
- The use of 'totally' can reflect a speaker's attitude or informality, marking a shift in language trends toward more expressive communication.
- Studies suggest that overuse of 'totally' can indicate a relaxed or informal social context, often prevalent among younger speakers.
Psychology
- Using 'totally' in conversation can evoke stronger feelings and excitement, making statements seem more relatable.
- The word can create a sense of camaraderie and understanding in social groups, promoting a feeling of connection.
- Research shows that people often use language like 'totally' to adapt their communication style to match their audience's expectations.
Language Evolution
- As language evolves, words like 'totally' shift in meaning, adapting to cultural changes and new social norms.
- Its elongated use signifies a transformation in how people express certainty and affirmation.
- Languages continuously assimilate and adapt such words, enhancing their communicative function over time.
Origin of 'totally'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'totalis', which means whole or complete.
- It entered the English language in the late 18th century, originally used in a mathematical context.
- By the mid-20th century, its usage expanded to express thoroughness in everyday conversation.
The word 'totally' originated in the late 19th century as a combination of 'total' and the adverbial suffix '-ly'. It has evolved over time to be commonly used in informal and colloquial speech to emphasize agreement, certainty, or completeness.
See also: teetotal, teetotaler, totalable, totaling, totalistic, totalitarian, totality, totalizer.