CATEGORICALLY Synonyms: 73 Similar and Opposite Words

categorically

adverb

Definition of categorically

as in absolutely

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of categorically El-Sayed has since disavowed Piker’s controversial statements and ended plans for joint campaigning, but has not categorically repudiated him nor apologized for appearing with him. — ABC News, 20 Sep. 2026 El-Sayed has since disavowed Piker's controversial statements and ended plans for joint campaigning, but has not categorically repudiated him nor apologized for appearing with him. — CBS News, 20 Sep. 2026 Flynn took the witness stand in an oxford gray suit and categorically denied having sex with either of his accusers. — Los Angeles Times, 2 Sep. 2026 Vargas found that Secretary of State Marco Rubio had exceeded his authority by categorically stopping consular officers from issuing visas based on applicants’ nationalities. — María Luisa Paúl, USA Today, 27 Aug. 2026 Murray said he is not categorically opposed to a data center in Waxhaw, but any proposal would need to be governed by clear rules that account for its effects on surrounding neighborhoods and the town’s utilities. — Nora O'Neill, Charlotte Observer, 4 Aug. 2026 Jafri has categorically denied any wrongdoing in the Dubai sale. — Devorah Lauter, ARTnews.com, 3 Aug. 2026 Biological and chemical weapons are categorically off-limits. — Anniek Bao, CNBC, 9 July 2026 Instead, researchers have sought compelling evidence that quantum proofs are categorically different from classical ones. — Ben Brubaker, Quanta Magazine, 6 July 2026

Recent Examples of Synonyms for categorically

Adverb

This month absolutely flew by and October should be more of the same.

— Joe Kinsey OutKick, FOXNews.com, 25 Sep. 2026
Cornstarch and pigskin have absolutely nothing in common, at least on the surface.

— Michael Peregrine, Chicago Tribune, 25 Sep. 2026

Definition of absolutely

Adverb

That kind of insult to excellence can't happen in college football, since every Saturday matters and losing just a couple of games, even early in the season and to good teams by narrow margins, can end your hopes (see Notre Dame last season).

— Bradley Gitz, Arkansas Online, 28 Sep. 2026
Hegseth’s preferred pick for Army secretary, Sean Parnell, has faced questions over whether he could even be confirmed by the GOP Senate.

— Burgess Everett, semafor.com, 28 Sep. 2026

Definition of even

Adverb

These dangerous illnesses are all completely preventable and serve as a reminder of the importance of proper vaccines to protect the health of our families and children.

— Chicago Tribune, Chicago Tribune, 26 Sep. 2026
The wall is also fragile and cannot be completely preserved, so archaeologists will use modern technology to create a 3D reconstruction for further study.

— Daniel S. Levine, PEOPLE, 25 Sep. 2026

Definition of completely

Adverb

Formal rites for the dying, already limited, were further truncated or skipped entirely.

— Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 28 Sep. 2026
Researchers at the Advanced Science Research Center at the CUNY Graduate Center (CUNY ASRC) have discovered that passing waves through a special class of synthetic media forces them to abandon chaotic scattering entirely.

— Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 28 Sep. 2026

Definition of entirely

Adverb

Some say the public backlash to AI, and OpenAI, is partly because messaging from the leading labs can be esoteric, rather than grounded in the day-to-day benefits of AI, and in some cases, downright frightening.

— Emily Forlini, Fortune, 23 Sep. 2026
Why, those teeming crowds just outside the shows are their own lively scene, filled with exciting, unexpected, and downright inspired takes on what’s happening in fashion.

— Phil Oh, Vogue, 23 Sep. 2026

Definition of downright

Adverb

Raya Sanggingan Banjar Lungsiakan Clever planning, fresh design, private courtyards, and infinity pools make this resort feel modern—yet totally at home in Ubud.

— Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 1 Oct. 2026
Yeah, that’s surprising to me because that totally made sense that River would have kicked him out of the car.

— Lisa de los Reyes, HollywoodReporter, 30 Sep. 2026

Definition of totally

Adverb

Multifaceted and deeply mindful, the Healing Village Spa at this classic beachfront resort's treatments are wholly original and sublimely rejuvenating.

— Kathryn Romeyn, Condé Nast Traveler, 30 Sep. 2026
Crafted with shimmering elements throughout the sheer design, the dress was wholly ornate.

— Julia Teti, Footwear News, 27 Sep. 2026

Definition of wholly

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“Categorically.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/categorically. Accessed 2 Oct. 2026.

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Synonyms of categorically

adverb

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