French word

absolument

Pronunciation

IPA/apsolymɑ̃/

Meaning

  • adverbabsolutely

Example

Tu dois absolument venir.

You absolutely must come.

Illustration for absolument (absolutely)

More examples

Il est absolument interdit de fumer ici.

It is absolutely forbidden to smoke here.

Core concept

A situation closed off from exceptions, extending to the strongest possible degree.

Common phrases

  • absolument interdit

    absolutely forbidden

Similar words

vraiment: Used to emphasize that something is genuinely true or felt.
tout à fait: Completely in the stated condition.
certainement: With certainty; surely.
forcément: As an unavoidable or necessary result.

Definition in French

Renforce l'idée de totalité ou d'achèvement, signifiant entièrement ou sans exception selon le contexte.

Word origin

The word developed from French absolu, meaning complete or unrestricted, with -ment forming the corresponding adverb.

Usage tips

  • French absolument can mean 'definitely' as well as 'completely', so context determines whether it expresses insistence or totality.

Other meanings

  • completelyadverb

Opposites

Related words

Word lists with this word