superlatively
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /suːpˈɜːlətˌɪvli/
US
- /suːpˈɜːlətˌɪvli/
Description
- to the highest degree
- extremely
- exceptionally
- supremely
- peerlessly
If something is done superlatively well, it's not just good; it's excellent in the highest possible way. Think of a chef who makes a cake that is not only tasty but truly exceptional. The word shows that the quality is at its peak. It comes from "superlative," which means "of the highest kind," so doing something superlatively means doing it as well as it can be done. You might use it for a singer with an amazingly strong voice or a writer whose style feels unusually graceful. It adds emphasis when you want to say that something stands far above the ordinary.
The word "superlatively" functions as an adverb meaning to the highest degree, extremely, or in a manner that represents supreme excellence. It signifies that something possesses the utmost quality or is performed with unparalleled skill. Unlike simply saying something is "good" or "well," superlatively emphasizes a level of excellence that surpasses all others.
It's derived from the adjective "superlative," which itself means "of the highest order, class, or quality." Think of grammar: superlative adjectives (like "best," "tallest," or "most beautiful") are used to compare three or more things and identify the one with the most of a particular attribute. Superlatively extends this concept to actions and descriptions.
You'll often find it used in contexts where nuance and emphasis are important, such as describing artistic achievements, exceptional talent, or remarkable experiences. For example: "The concert was superlatively performed," meaning every aspect of the performance reached an extraordinary level. Or, "She writes superlatively well," which suggests a very high level of skill.
While not a word you'd use in everyday casual conversation, superlatively adds weight and sophistication when you want to highlight something truly exceptional. It's reserved for those instances where "very" or "extremely" simply don't capture the full extent of excellence.
Examples
- 1
Musical talent
She is a superlatively gifted pianist.
- 2
Stage performance
The cast performed superlatively throughout the long tour.
- 3
Film craft
Even critics who disliked the film admitted it was superlatively photographed.
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- superlativelyadverb