thoroughly

adverb

ˈthər-(ˌ)ō-lē How to pronounce thoroughly (audio)
Definition of thoroughlynext
1
as in systematically
with attention to all aspects or details they researched the issue thoroughly before deciding how to vote

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in fully
to a full extent or degree I am thoroughly satisfied with her explanation of the events of that evening

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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 thoroughly The most important steps are to cook tempeh thoroughly and to eat a large enough portion that will meaningfully contribute to your protein goals. — Alessandra Signorelli, Vogue, 25 Sep. 2026 Rinse the knife thoroughly, then dry it immediately to prevent water spots and rust. — Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 25 Sep. 2026 Always wash produce thoroughly, using methods like vinegar soaks for dirt and pests. — Sophia Beams, Better Homes & Gardens, 24 Sep. 2026 Limited by some confidentiality protections, the independent trustee will inspect relevant records and review various company facilities to thoroughly establish compliance. — Alison Foreman, IndieWire, 23 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for thoroughly
Recent Examples of Synonyms for thoroughly
  1. systematically
  2. fully
  3. completely
  4. quite
  5. totally
  6. utterly
  7. perfectly
  8. all
Adverb
  • But the death of Khamenei eliminated the regime’s paramount figure, disturbing the existing balance, and the war is systematically privileging the parts of the state responsible for survival over everything else.
    — Ali Vaez, Foreign Affairs, 29 Sep. 2026
  • John soon deduces that this is Anton’s (Paul Ben-Victor) planet, the one that had been systematically that wiped out by the Manhunter.
    — Katie Campione, Deadline, 27 Sep. 2026
Definition of systematically
Adverb
  • Resnikoff fully inhabits the role of Jaku, giving him a distinctive and consistent voice, posture and temperament.
    — Christopher Arnott, Hartford Courant, 2 Oct. 2026
  • Officials said during the Oval Office event that building the pipeline will take three years and that exports of liquified natural gas would begin two years after that -- but that was dependent on financing coming through fully.
    — Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 1 Oct. 2026
Definition of fully
Adverb
  • The third, Surrender, is a massage performed in water, in which the buoyancy and warmth allow the body to completely relax and let go.
    — Robb Report Studio, Robb Report, 3 Oct. 2026
  • What’s different about this style is that its uppers are completely decorated with small, shimmering crystal details in a silvery, light-catching finish.
    — Karla Rodriguez, Footwear News, 2 Oct. 2026
Definition of completely
Adverb
  • Nothing hits quite like a pair of $39 Levi’s jeans, and this perfectly stretchy, dark-wash option is just what the doctor ordered.
    — Annie Blackman, InStyle, 29 Sep. 2026
  • But just outside the factory doors, time hasn't been quite as kind.
    — Itay Hod, CBS News, 29 Sep. 2026
Definition of quite
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
  • In the book, MacLachlan recalls being utterly dumbfounded at having been asked to do something so oblivious at best and cruel at worst.
    — Rachel Brodsky, Los Angeles Times, 25 Sep. 2026
  • This is because an utterly distinctive element of creation would be missing!
    — The Christian Science Monitor, Christian Science Monitor, 22 Sep. 2026
Definition of utterly
Adverb
  • Nothing hits quite like a pair of $39 Levi’s jeans, and this perfectly stretchy, dark-wash option is just what the doctor ordered.
    — Annie Blackman, InStyle, 29 Sep. 2026
  • This, the perfectly decent people of Kettleborough reasoned, was a natural and godly rebuke for Susan and Cuthbert’s sin.
    — Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 28 Sep. 2026
Definition of perfectly
Adverb
  • Wiles showed Republicans the president's upcoming travel schedule, which attendees described as extensive and almost every day, all across the country.
    — MICHELLE L. PRICE, Arkansas Online, 2 Oct. 2026
  • Banking apps, passwords and security codes can all pass through that little screen in your hand.
    — Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 2 Oct. 2026
Definition of all

Browse Nearby Words

thoroughgoing
thoroughly
thoroughness
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Cite this Entry

“Thoroughly.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/thoroughly. Accessed 3 Oct. 2026.

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