6 synonyms and better words for “completely,” each with its precise meaning and an example so you pick the one that actually fits, not just the nearest match.
To the fullest or most extreme degree, leaving no part untouched.
“She was utterly transfixed by the storm rolling in over the mountains.”
Best for: Works well in both casual and formal writing; adds emotional intensity without sounding pretentious.
In a sweeping, total manner affecting everything at once.
“The new regime wholesale dismantled the policies of its predecessor.”
Best for: Best for describing large-scale change or destruction; carries a blunt, forceful tone.
In every detail and aspect, with nothing left incomplete or overlooked.
“He had thoroughly exhausted every argument before conceding the point.”
Best for: Fits formal and professional writing; implies careful, deliberate completeness.
Totally and fundamentally, eliminating something down to its very origins.
“The committee voted to reform the institution root and branch.”
Best for: Idiomatic and vivid; suits political or reformist contexts and formal prose.
In the most absolute and perfect sense, without any reservation or deficiency.
“She was consummate in her devotion to the craft, never cutting a single corner.”
Best for: Elevated and slightly formal; works beautifully in literary or admiring descriptions.
Full and absolute in extent, admitting no limitation or exception.
“The council was granted plenary authority to act without further approval.”
Best for: Rare outside legal or academic contexts; lends weighty, institutional gravitas to a sentence.
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