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adv

thoughtfully

THAWT-fuu-lee
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Thoughtfully (adv) means In a way that shows careful thought or reflection. Example: “He nodded thoughtfully before responding.”

adv
1
In a way that shows careful thought or reflection.
"He nodded thoughtfully before responding."
"'You left your hat in the gorse, sir,' said Parkinson thoughtfully. 'I will get it while you are engaged.'" — Ernest Bramah, Max Carrados Mysteries (1927)
2
In a kind or considerate way.
"She thoughtfully left a note explaining where she had gone."

How to use thoughtfully

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishDoing something with care, reflection, or kindness toward others.

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Word forms

Comparative
more thoughtfully
Superlative
most thoughtfully
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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

He nodded _____ before responding.

Etymology

From thoughtful plus -ly.

Antonyms

thoughtlessly

Rhymes for thoughtfully

See all rhymes for thoughtfully →

Frequently asked questions

What does “thoughtfully” mean?
The word “thoughtfully” means in a way that shows careful thought or reflection. In plain terms, doing something with care, reflection, or kindness toward others.
How do you pronounce “thoughtfully”?
“Thoughtfully” is pronounced THAWT-fuu-lee (/ˈθɔtfəli/ in IPA).
How do you use “thoughtfully” in a sentence?
Here is “thoughtfully” used in a sentence: “He nodded thoughtfully before responding.”
What part of speech is “thoughtfully”?
“Thoughtfully” is an adverb.
How many meanings does “thoughtfully” have?
“Thoughtfully” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: in a way that shows careful thought or reflection.