intently
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Definition
Adverb: * With great concentration, focus, or earnestness; with strained or eager attention.
Usage
The adverb "intently" is used to describe how an action is performed, specifically emphasizing a high degree of mental focus or visual concentration. It modifies verbs related to observation, listening, or thought. * It typically follows the verb it modifies (e.g., "He listened intently"). * It can also be placed before a verb in some constructions for emphasis (e.g., "She intently studied the map").
Examples
- The detective examined the evidence intently.
- The child watched the magician intently, not wanting to miss a single trick.
- She listened intently to the instructions.
- He was staring intently at the horizon, searching for any sign of land.
Advanced Usage
- "to focus intently": To concentrate with all of one's attention.
- You must focus intently on the task at hand to succeed.
- "to gaze/look intently": To look at something with fixed and earnest attention.
- The astronomer gazed intently through the telescope.
Variants and Related Words
- Intent (adjective): Showing earnest and eager attention. (e.g., )
- Intention (noun): A plan or aim. (Note: This is related etymologically but has a different primary meaning.)
Synonyms
- Attentively
- Closely
- Fixedly
- Earnestly
- Keenly
Antonyms
- Absentmindedly
- Distractedly
- Casually
Related Phrases
- With rapt attention: A phrase with a very similar meaning to "intently," often implying being completely engrossed.
- The audience followed the speaker's story with rapt attention.
Adverb
- with strained or eager attention
- listened intently
- stood watching intently