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

One aspect that was absolutely beneficial to Def Jam is that having him in that role attracted a lot of amazing talent.

— Alex Gonzalez, VIBE.com, 18 Sep. 2026
The destination of our hapless hero, a courier (Austin Abrams, absolutely awesome) who must transport an important package between medical facilities, is indeed the game’s residentially evil homebase of Racoon City.

— David Fear, Rolling Stone, 18 Sep. 2026

Definition of absolutely

Adverb

In other cases, Virginia prosecutors have previously brought their own expert witnesses to counter an insanity defense at trials or even disputed the claims without their own expert, according to reports and court records.

— Hudson Crozier, The Washington Examiner, 21 Sep. 2026
In some analyses involving individual elements or combinations of rare earths, the odds ratios exceeded 3 or even 4.

— Bojan Stojkovski, Interesting Engineering, 21 Sep. 2026

Definition of even

Adverb

Cregger uses first-person-shooter point-of-view shots, with the long barrel of a rifle or automatic weapon lining up our sights; one running gag sees Bryan, completely hopeless with guns, having to shoot the locks off of gates.

— Katie Walsh, Los Angeles Times, 18 Sep. 2026
At the center of it all is the completely fictional Corinne, who Huppert plays to the hilt.

— Pete Hammond, Deadline, 18 Sep. 2026

Definition of completely

Adverb

Beijing, for its part, scrapped levies on South African imports entirely as part of its move this year to extend its zero-tariff policy across the continent.

— Alexis Akwagyiram, semafor.com, 21 Sep. 2026
According to Parris, prior to the 18th century, blacksmiths made nails entirely by hand, which meant no two were exactly alike.

— Nicole Letts, Southern Living, 20 Sep. 2026

Definition of entirely

Adverb

Conflicts and tragedies are almost always the result of carelessness or accidents that spiral totally out of control.

— Patrick Brzeski, HollywoodReporter, 16 Sep. 2026
And a surprising number of people, for good or bad, are totally oblivious to their own motivations.

— Fortune Editors, Fortune, 15 Sep. 2026

Definition of totally

Adverb

Week-one eliminations seem wholly unfair, but Dancing With the Stars is nothing if not cutthroat as hell.

— Maggie Fremont, Vulture, 16 Sep. 2026
Collections and designs from the brand are largely inspired by bohemian style and romantic energy, both qualities of which were wholly present in Wood’s dress.

— Julia Teti, Footwear News, 16 Sep. 2026

Definition of wholly

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categorically

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“Categorically.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/categorically. Accessed 23 Sep. 2026.

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Synonyms of categorically

adverb

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