avowedly
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /əvˈaʊɪdli/
US
- /əˈvaʊədli/
Description
- openly
- publicly
- admittedly
If someone does something avowedly, they do it openly and without concealment, making it clear where they stand. Think of a politician avowedly committed to environmental protection—they aren’t hiding that stance—or someone avowedly opposed to a policy, openly declaring disagreement. The word usually points to beliefs, principles, or positions people deliberately state in public. It's not a word you’d normally use for accidental actions like tripping, because avowedly is about what you choose to declare.
The word avowedly describes doing something openly and publicly, with no attempt to hide one's position. It comes from the verb "avow," which means to declare, confess, or acknowledge something openly. In practice, it often has a stronger, more purposeful tone than simply "openly."
It's often used to describe principles, motives, or identities that a person puts forward publicly. For example, "He was an avowedly socialist writer," meaning he openly identified with socialist ideas in his work. Or, "She is avowedly opposed to the new policy," showing she openly stated her disagreement.
The key element of avowedly is that it suggests a deliberate choice to be upfront about a view, even if controversial. It's a way of saying a person has proclaimed a position publicly. You might describe someone as an avowedly feminist artist who intentionally includes feminist themes in their art and talks about those beliefs openly.
You can use it with verbs ("He avowedly defended his position"), but it is most common with stance or belief descriptions. The word adds a layer of intentionality and transparency, signaling that the person is openly owning that position. If something is done avowedly, you can usually tell exactly what side they are on.
Examples
- 1
Political tone
The magazine is avowedly political, so it makes no attempt to sound neutral.
- 2
Autobiographical writing
The novel is avowedly autobiographical, with many details taken from the author's own life.
- 3
Practical answer
She gave an avowedly practical answer, focusing on cost rather than ideals.
- 4
Election platform
He ran on an avowedly anti-corruption platform, which appealed to younger voters.
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- avowedlyadverb