WordGarden.iopowerfully
B2Pronunciation
UK
- /pˈaʊəfəli/
US
- /ˈpaʊərfli/
Meanings
Adverb
with great force, strength, or intensity
in a highly effective, emotionally affecting, or persuasive way
Beyond the definition
To do something powerfully means to act with significant strength, impact, or effect. Imagine a storm; it doesn't just rain, the wind blows powerfully, lashing the coast with water! Or consider a speech that doesn't just share facts, but moves an entire crowd emotionally.
Acting powerfully isn't always about physical muscle. A story can be told powerfully through vivid imagery, or an argument can be made powerfully through clear evidence. It suggests an action that leaves a lasting impression, whether it's a booming sound, a heartfelt emotion, or a convincing idea. You might say a singer delivered a song powerfully, or a leader spoke powerfully enough to inspire change.
The word powerfully is an adverb describing how an action is performed—with great strength, force, or influence. It goes beyond simply being "strong" and implies a noticeable, impactful result. Think of ocean waves crashing powerfully against the shore, eroding the land over time. That's more than just movement; it is transformative power in action.
While powerfully often applies to physical actions, such as a boxer striking an opponent powerfully, its usage also extends into emotional and intellectual areas. A story can be told powerfully, captivating readers with vivid characters and a gripping plot. Likewise, an argument can be made powerfully, changing minds through a strong blend of logic and feeling.
Consider how music might resonate powerfully throughout a concert hall, filling the space with intense, vibrating sound. Or consider a person expressing their grief powerfully, conveying deep sorrow in a way that is profoundly felt by everyone around them. It is about more than just doing something; it is about doing it in a way that commands attention and leaves a mark. Whether a CEO speaks powerfully about the future or a protestor speaks powerfully for justice, the word suggests confidence, conviction, and the ability to create a significant, often life-changing effect.
Examples
- 1
Engine strength
The engine pulled powerfully up the hill.
- 2
Sports action
She kicked the ball powerfully into the corner of the net.
- 3
Body build
He is powerfully built, but he moves very gracefully.
- Phrasepowerfully built
with a strong, muscular body
- 4
Film impact
The film powerfully shows how grief can change a family.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Argument
Her speech argued powerfully for better pay for nurses.
- Patternargue powerfully for + cause
give strong reasons to support it
- 6
Memory trigger
The smell of the sea brought back childhood memories powerfully.
See also
Similar
- strongly
- forcefully
- potently
Shades of meaning
- compellingly
- vigorously
- intensely
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- powerfully built
- powerfully argued
- powerfully moving
- powerfully effective
Word family
Explore
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- powerfullyadverb