supinely
Definition
Adverb: 1. In a supine manner; lying on the back with the face upward. 2. In a passive, lethargic, or indifferently submissive manner; without active resistance or interest.
Usage
The adverb "supinely" describes either a physical position or a metaphorical state of mind. * It modifies verbs to describe how an action is performed with passive acceptance or physical inertia. * It is a formal word, more common in written English than in everyday speech.
Examples
- Physical Position:
- The patient lay supinely on the examination table.
- She rested supinely on the grass, gazing at the clouds.
- Metaphorical Passivity:
- The citizens supinely accepted the new, unjust laws.
- He supinely allowed others to make all the important decisions for him.
Advanced Usage
- "To lie supinely": This is a common collocation emphasizing the physical posture.
- "To accept/allow something supinely": This pattern highlights passive, unresisting acquiescence.
Variants and Related Words
- Supine (adjective): The base form.
- Physical: "a supine position."
- Metaphorical: "a supine attitude toward authority."
- Pronely (adverb): The antonym for the physical meaning, meaning lying face downward.
- Passively (adverb): A more common synonym for the metaphorical meaning.
- Inertly (adverb): Suggests a lack of ability or will to move or act.
- Resignedly (adverb): Suggests passive acceptance following struggle or disappointment.
Synonyms
- Passively
- Inertly
- Resignedly
- Submissively
- Lethargically
Antonyms
- Actively
- Vigorously
- Assertively
- Pronely (for the physical meaning)
Adverb
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in an indifferently supine manner
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he called the tune to me and I supinely took it up
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with the face upward
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she was stretched supinely on her back
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