Definition

Adverb 1. To be more accurate or precise; strictly speaking: Used to introduce a statement that corrects or clarifies a previous, more general or less accurate statement by providing the exact or technically correct information.

Usage

The phrase "properly speaking" functions as a sentence adverb or a conjunctive adverb. It is used to signal that the speaker is about to state a fact or definition with greater precision. It often follows a more casual or broad statement. * It is typically set off by commas. * It can appear at the beginning, middle, or end of a sentence.

Examples

• At the beginning: "Properly speaking, a tomato is a fruit, not a vegetable."
• In the middle: "He is, properly speaking, an illustrator rather than a painter."
• At the end: "They are partners, properly speaking."

Advanced Usage

• Academic and Formal Writing: Commonly used in analytical, legal, or technical writing to draw distinctions and establish precise terminology.
  • Example: "The treaty is, properly speaking, an armistice agreement, not a peace treaty."
• Clarifying Definitions: Used to specify the correct category or classification.
  • Example: "Whales are, properly speaking, mammals, not fish."

Variants and Related Words

• Strictly speaking: A very close synonym, often used interchangeably with "properly speaking."
• Technically speaking: Emphasizes the technical or formal definition.
• In fact / Actually: Used to state a fact, but without the same strong emphasis on precise categorization as "properly speaking."
• To be precise / To be exact: Phrases used similarly to introduce a precise correction or detail.

Synonyms

• Strictly speaking
• Technically
• Correctly speaking
• In precise terms
• To be accurate

Antonyms

• Loosely speaking
• Generally speaking
• In a broad sense
• Colloquially

Related Phrases and Idioms

• In the strict sense of the word: A longer, more formal equivalent.
  • Example: "In the strict sense of the word, he is not a director of the company."
• If we want to be precise: A more conversational way to introduce a correction.
  • Example: "We arrived at six, or, if we want to be precise, at six-oh-two."

Adverb

1. in actual fact
   • properly speaking, they are not husband and wife