thoroughly - Master This Word
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thoroughly Word Meanings
- completely or in every part
- in a careful, detailed, and exhaustive manner
- as an intensifier before adjectives or adverbs
thoroughly Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
thoroughly Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈθɜːrəli/
US
/ˈθɝəli/
thoroughly Word Etymology
Root decomposition: root thorough with suffix -ly. Historical origin: from Old English thuruh/through, via Middle English thoroughe; ultimately from Proto-Germanic. Memory image: imagine a meticulous inspector checking every corner of a house until nothing is left unchecked.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I shift my weight at the kitchen table, move the cup closer, and adjust the angle of the page as I read. I trace the lines with a finger, turn the corner of the note, and check every detail, stirring my thoughts as I go. I push through a tangle of questions, hold each small clue, and keep my focus steady until I feel I have got it right. I read thoroughly, not in a rush, letting the sense of completion rise as the meaning answers itself in the moment.
Real Context
Thoroughly means completely or in every part; it can also function as an intensifier before adjectives or adverbs. It comes from thorough plus the suffix -ly, and it emphasizes carefulness, exhaustiveness, and fullness of experience or action. You can say I thoroughly enjoyed the book, I thoroughly cleaned the apartment, or the team thoroughly investigated the issue. The word signals that no part was skipped and that every detail has been considered. Learners often confuse thoroughly with through or with simply using very; the nuance here is total completeness and meticulous care in the process.
Usage Reminders
- • Use thoroughly to emphasize complete action or understanding.
- • Pair with verbs like examine, clean, research, or enjoy.
- • It precedes the word it intensifies: thoroughly enjoyed, thoroughly convinced.
- • Do not use with plain nouns (thorough noun isn’t correct).
- • Distinguish it from simply saying very or fully in casual contexts.
Common Misconceptions
- Mistakingly using thoroughly with nouns (e. g., 'a thoroughly book' is incorrect).
- Confusing thoroughly with through; they are unrelated.
- Thinking thoroughly equals just very; it often adds the sense of complete care.
- Overusing before adjectives when a stronger word like completely is better
- Misplacing thoroughly after a linking verb rather than before/after the verb it modifies
Thinking Differences
In English, thoroughly signals a strong, explicit sense of completeness or care. Learners often overgeneralize it to mean simply 'very' or confuse it with through, leading to awkward phrasing like thoroughly the book. Remember it mainly modifies actions, results, or descriptions, not standalone nouns, and it frequently appears before adjectives or verbs.
Learning Tips
- Memorize core collocations: thoroughly enjoy, thoroughly examine, thoroughly cleaned, thoroughly researched.
- Practice with verbs: examine, understand, persuade, test, review.
- Note its placement: before the adjective or after a verb for emphasis.
- Differentiate from completely/fully; reserve for emphasis and methodical thoroughness.
- Use in formal writing to convey diligence; in casual speech, prefer simpler intensifiers.
- Watch for noun-shifting errors; you usually modify actions or descriptions, not nouns.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'thoroughly' mean?
A.Barely
B.Quickly
C.Vigorously
D.Stupidly
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'thoroughly' correctly?
A.He thoroughly enjoyed the boring lecture.
B.She skimmed through the book thoroughly before writing the essay.
C.She was thoroughly unhappy about winning the lottery.
D.He thoroughly cleaned the room without dusting.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'thoroughly'?
A.Sporadically
B.Meticulously
C.Superficially
D.Rapidly
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'thoroughly'?
A.Carelessly
B.Partially
C.Randomly
D.Swiftly
Step 5: Mastery
Can you give an example of a real-life scenario where being 'thoroughly' is important?
A.The detective methodically examined all the evidence in the case.
B.She quickly skimmed through the instructions before assembling the furniture.
C.He hurriedly prepared his presentation for the important meeting.
D.He casually glanced at the map before going on the hiking trail.
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