adv A2 Elementary Common

physically

FIHZ-ih-klee

Physically (adv) means In terms of the body, rather than mentally or emotionally. Example: “She was physically exhausted after the marathon.”

adv

In terms of the body, rather than mentally or emotionally.

"She was physically exhausted after the marathon."

"He felt physically sick with nerves before the interview."

In reality, in a way that actually happens in the physical world (as opposed to figuratively).

"It's physically impossible to be in two places at once."

How to Use Physically

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishRelating to the body, or to what's actually, literally possible.

Common pairings

physically fit physically demanding physically impossible

Word Forms

more physically comparative, most physically superlative

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She was _____ exhausted after the marathon.

Etymology

From physical plus the adverb-forming suffix -ly.

Synonyms

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bodily corporeally materially tangibly actually really

Related Words

so very really actually fucking physical indeed truly

Rhymes for physically

ally bally sally Wally dally rally tally pally really locally usually equally

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does “physically” mean?

The word “physically” means in terms of the body, rather than mentally or emotionally. In plain terms, relating to the body, or to what's actually, literally possible.

How do you pronounce “physically”?

“Physically” is pronounced FIHZ-ih-klee (/ˈfɪz.ɪ.kli/ in IPA).

How do you use “physically” in a sentence?

Here is “physically” used in a sentence: “She was physically exhausted after the marathon.”

What part of speech is “physically”?

“Physically” is an adverb.

Is “physically” a common word?

“Physically” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.

How many meanings does “physically” have?

“Physically” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: in terms of the body, rather than mentally or emotionally.

What is the difference between 'physically' and 'mentally'?

'Physically' refers to the body and its condition or actions, while 'mentally' refers to the mind, thoughts, and emotions. Someone can be physically tired yet mentally alert, which shows the two words describe different aspects of a person.

What is the difference between 'physically' and 'figuratively'?

When 'physically' means in reality, it describes something that actually happens in the physical world, as opposed to 'figuratively,' which describes something meant only as an image or comparison. 'He physically carried her upstairs' is literal, while 'he carried the whole team' is figurative.

Where does 'physically' go in a sentence?

'Physically' usually comes directly before the adjective or verb it modifies, as in 'physically fit' or 'physically demanding.' When emphasising reality, it often sits before the main verb, as in 'she was physically present at the meeting.'

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so very really actually fucking physical indeed truly