Definition

1. Adverb:
   • To the fullest extent; in every way; entirely: Indicates that something is done, exists, or is true in a total, absolute, or finished manner, leaving no part out.
   • So as to be complete; with everything necessary: Indicates that all required parts, elements, or actions are present or have been done.

Usage and Examples

• To indicate totality or entirety:

  • The building was completely destroyed by the fire. (Nothing of the building remained.)
  • I completely agree with your assessment. (I agree with every part of it, without reservation.)
  • She changed her mind completely. (Her opinion became the total opposite.)

• To indicate that all necessary parts are present or all actions are finished:

  • Please fill out the application form completely. (Provide information for every required field.)
  • The project is completely finished. (All tasks are done; it is 100% complete.)

Advanced Usage and Nuances

• "Completely" vs. "Totally" / "Entirely" / "Wholly": These are often used interchangeably as intensifiers meaning "to the full extent." "Completely" often emphasizes the idea of a finished state or a whole.

  • The system is completely automated. (Emphasizes that the process is fully and finishedly automated.)

• "Not completely": Used to indicate a partial state, that something is not fully true or done.

  • I'm not completely sure about the date. (I am somewhat sure, but have some doubt.)

Variants and Related Words

• Complete (adjective): Having all necessary parts; entire; finished.
  • This is the complete collection.
• Complete (verb): To finish making or doing; to make whole.
  • He will complete the assignment tomorrow.

Synonyms

• Entirely: In every part or aspect; fully.
• Totally: In a total manner; to the full extent.
• Wholly: To the whole or full extent; entirely.
• Fully: Completely or entirely; to the fullest extent.
• Altogether: Completely; totally (often used for emphasis).

Antonyms

• Partially: Only in part; not completely.
• Partly: To some extent; not wholly.
• Incompletely: In a way that is not finished or total.

Common Collocations and Phrases

• Completely different: Entirely unlike something else.
  • The final design was completely different from the original sketch.
• Completely wrong/right: Entirely incorrect or correct.
  • Your answer is completely wrong.
• Completely unaware: Having no knowledge whatsoever.
  • He was completely unaware of the problems.
• Completely exhausted: Totally drained of energy.
  • After the marathon, she was completely exhausted.

Adverb

1. so as to be complete; with everything necessary
   • he had filled out the form completely
   • the apartment was completely furnished
2. to a complete degree or to the full or entire extent (`whole' is often used informally for `wholly')
   • he was wholly convinced
   • entirely satisfied with the meal
   • it was completely different from what we expected
   • was completely at fault
   • a totally new situation
   • the directions were all wrong
   • it was not altogether her fault
   • an altogether new approach
   • a whole new idea