Definition

Adverb: In the order of the letters of the alphabet.

Usage

The adverb "alphabetically" is used to describe the arrangement or ordering of items (such as words, names, or titles) according to the standard sequence of letters from A to Z.

Examples

• The books on the shelf are organized alphabetically by the author's last name.
• Please sort the list of participants alphabetically.
• The dictionary entries are listed alphabetically for easy reference.

Advanced Usage

• "To arrange/order/list something alphabetically": This is the most common construction, describing the action of putting items into alphabetical order.
  • The librarian arranged the new fiction books alphabetically by title.
• "Arranged in alphabetical order": A common passive phrase describing the state of being ordered.
  • The files are stored in alphabetical order.

Variants and Related Words

• Alphabetical (adjective): Relating to or using the alphabet.
  • The index provides an alphabetical list of key terms.
• Alphabetize (verb): To arrange items in alphabetical order.
  • Can you alphabetize these customer cards?

Synonyms

• In ABC order: (Informal) In the order of the alphabet.
• By letter: Arranged according to the initial letter.

Notes on Different Meanings

The word "alphabetically" has a single, specific meaning related to the sequence of an alphabet. It does not have distinct idiomatic meanings or phrasal verbs. Its use is consistent across contexts where systematic ordering is required.

Adverb

1. in alphabetical order
   • the list was arranged alphabetically