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Emphatic adverbs

abu_sandra

abu_sandra

Saudi Arabia

absolutely/definitely/certainly/exactly

There is not very much difference in meaning or in use when these emphasizing adjectives are used to express strong agreement with a statement, question or suggestion.

Absolutely is perhaps the strongest. If you use exactly, you are emphasizing that what someone has said is 100% correct.

Compare the following:

  • Doesn’t Sandra look stunning in that hat?
    Oh, absolutely! I couldn’t agree more.
  • Geoffrey is a complete and utter fool.
    Absolutely! / Definitely! / Exactly!
  • Will you come shopping with me on Saturday?
    Definitely! / Certainly!
  • If we can’t find those tickets, we shan’t be able to get into the show.
    Exactly!
  • Are you going to Turkey again this summer?
    Definitely! Without a doubt!

01:07 PM Feb 02 2008 |