physically
A2Pronunciation
UK
- /fˈɪzɪkli/
US
- /ˈfɪzɪkəli/
- /ˈfɪzɪkli/
Description
- relating to the body
- in a bodily way
- tangibly
"Physically" describes something relating to the body rather than the mind or emotions. It is about what happens to your body, or what is real and present in the world around you. A physically demanding job might require lifting heavy objects, while someone can feel physically tired after a long day of work.
Think of it like this: you can be emotionally drained after a tough conversation, but physically exhausted after running a marathon. It points to what affects the body directly. Sometimes "physically" is also used to stress that something really happened in person. If someone was physically present at a meeting, they were actually there, not joining online.
The word "physically" connects to everything related to the physical world—the realm of matter, bodies, and tangible experiences. It's often used in contrast with things that are mental, emotional, or abstract.
For example, if someone is struggling with a health issue, they might say, "I'm feeling physically weak," meaning their body lacks strength. Or, if you describe a challenge as "physically challenging," it means it requires bodily exertion and stamina. "Physically fit" describes someone in good physical condition, capable of enduring strenuous activity.
"Physically" can also be used to emphasize the reality or presence of something. Saying "He was physically abused" clarifies that the harm wasn't just emotional; it involved actual physical contact. Similarly, "The building is physically sound" means it's structurally strong and stable.
Sometimes, you'll hear it used as a qualifier when discussing limitations. "She can't physically run a marathon right now," implies she might have the desire but her body isn't currently capable. It distinguishes a bodily limitation from a lack of willpower or motivation.
So, whenever something relates to the body, its condition, or tangible existence—you're dealing with the realm of "physically." It grounds things in the concrete world we experience through our senses.
Examples
- 1
Physical effort
The work was hard physically, so we took breaks every hour.
- 2
Demanding work
The job is physically demanding, especially in the summer heat.
- 3
Mobility
She was physically unable to climb the stairs without help.
- 4
In-person presence
We need someone to be physically present at the meeting to sign the papers.
Phrase
physically present
there in person, not just online
- 5
Physical connection
The two buildings are physically connected by a glass bridge.
- 6
Physical contact
There was no argument, but one player physically pushed another.
- 7
Mental contrast
I was exhausted mentally, not physically, after the exam.
- 8
Real-world limits
It is physically impossible to finish all that work in one hour.
Phrase
physically impossible
impossible because of real-world limits, not just difficult
- 9
Physical attraction
He is physically attracted to her, but they do not know each other well.
Pattern
physically attracted to + person
attracted to their body or appearance
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- physicallyadverb