CATEGORICALLY Synonyms: 73 Similar and Opposite Words

categorically

adverb

Definition of categorically

as in absolutely

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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 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 The numbers are categorically different from anything American public life has seen before, and the institutions meant to respond to that fact are largely failing to do so. — Nick Lichtenberg, Fortune, 2 July 2026 Speaking with Le Monde, Costa has categorically denied the accusations. — News Desk, Artforum, 2 July 2026 Within days of the announcement, the American Medical Association and dozens of medical societies urged DHS to categorically exempt physicians, residents, and fellows based on workforce needs and the realities of underserved care. — Lorraine D'alessio, Forbes.com, 29 June 2026 The quality of a child’s public school education being determined by ZIP code is categorically unfair AND inefficient. — Dr. Gisele C. Shorter, Hartford Courant, 19 June 2026 That is simply categorically not the case. — Natalie Oganesyan, Deadline, 8 June 2026 The team implied — but didn’t state categorically — that the discussions centered on the team’s current tenancy at Soldier Field rather than possibilities for a new stadium in Chicago. — The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 4 June 2026

Recent Examples of Synonyms for categorically

Adverb

Rogers will absolutely improve Chelsea’s attack, and could play a key part in returning them to the Champions League over the next nine months.

— Cerys Jones, New York Times, 24 July 2026
For some fashion houses, the reference to fashion history was absolutely unmistakable, as was the case with Saint Laurent.

— Kelly Niesen, Glamour, 24 July 2026

Definition of absolutely

Adverb

Orduno also recommends starting with small strokes and letting the liner dry completely before layering or touching the area to prevent smudging.

— Marci Robin, Allure, 24 July 2026
While home-theater purists will likely still opt for external AV receivers and soundbars, the PX4 Pro is tailored to operate smoothly as a completely standalone cinema center.

— New Atlas, New Atlas, 24 July 2026

Definition of completely

Adverb

The researchers, however, did not find that their data supported their hypotheses entirely.

— Refractor, Refractor, 27 July 2026
And while the ongoing lease negotiation is under entirely different circumstances, the move from the General Assembly has colored some of the conversations now.

— DJ Simmons July 27, Charlotte Observer, 27 July 2026

Definition of entirely

Adverb

While a new deal was not totally ruled out, The Athletic reported Gueye was deemed more likely to leave than stay this summer, and that Everton were keen to reduce their reliance on the midfielder.

— Patrick Boyland, New York Times, 24 July 2026
The only thing worth changing about the examples above would be to switch out those mini bags for a lap-top-friendly work bag, though adding a pop of color is totally fair game.

— Emily Tannenbaum, Glamour, 23 July 2026

Definition of totally

Adverb

There’s a tone of alienation running through the group’s work, manifesting as a clash between aesthetics of rationalist sheen and heady mysticism that, depending on the light, read as both wholly improvised and meticulously programmed.

— Maxie Younger, Pitchfork, 24 July 2026
But don’t miss the point of caring so wholly in the first place — to have a human experience on this dense, fleshy plane.

— Goth Shakira, Los Angeles Times, 23 July 2026

Definition of wholly

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“Categorically.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/categorically. Accessed 27 Jul. 2026.

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Synonyms of categorically

adverb

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