WordGarden.iosystematically
A2Pronunciation
UK
- /sˌɪstəmˈætɪkli/
US
- /ˌsɪstəˈmætɪkli/
Meanings
Adverb
in a methodical, organized, step-by-step way
in a repeated, patterned, or system-wide way rather than by chance
Beyond the definition
If you approach a task systematically, you do not just jump in - you plan it out. Think of a detective carefully collecting clues, or a librarian organizing books. They are not acting randomly; they have a clear method. You might systematically search your house for lost keys, checking each room one by one, instead of running around in a panic. It suggests a careful and ordered way of working toward a goal.
The word comes from "system," meaning a set of connected parts working together. So when you do something systematically, you use a system - a plan or method - to guide your actions. A scientist might systematically test an idea, while an accountant systematically checks financial records. It is about being careful, organized, and in control.
To act systematically means to approach a task, problem, or situation in a planned, organized, and thorough way, following a specific set of steps or methods. It is more than just being neat; it implies a deliberate strategy for reaching a desired result. For example: "The researchers systematically collected data over several years," meaning they followed a clear process to ensure accuracy and reliability.
Systematically often suggests breaking down a larger task into smaller, manageable steps. A detective might systematically interview witnesses, starting with those closest to the crime scene and working outward. An engineer might systematically test different materials to find the strongest one.
The word is frequently used in contexts that require precision and accuracy - like scientific research, data analysis, or problem-solving. However, it can also apply to everyday tasks. You could systematically declutter your home by tackling one room at a time, following a specific process for sorting and discarding items.
It is important to note that while "methodically" is a close synonym, systematically often implies a more complete and well-defined plan than simply acting in an orderly way. It is about having a system in place before you begin. So if you want to avoid chaos and work toward success, it helps to approach challenges systematically.
Examples
- 1
File organization
She organized the files systematically, so it was easy to find anything later.
- 2
Exam study
I went through my notes systematically before the exam, starting with the oldest topics.
- 3
Software testing
The engineers tested the new software systematically before releasing it.
- 4
Police search
Police searched the building systematically, floor by floor.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Medical research
Researchers systematically compared the two treatments across different age groups.
- 6
Team management
Since taking over the team, he has systematically reduced unnecessary meetings.
- 7
Workplace complaints
The report found that complaints from temporary workers had been systematically ignored.
- Phrasesystematically ignored
ignored repeatedly as part of a broader pattern, not just once
- 8
Problem solving
If you want to find the mistake, check each step systematically instead of guessing.
See also
Similar
- methodically
- in an organized way
Shades of meaning
- step by step
Contrast
Do not confuse
- systemically
Used with (collocations)
- systematically examine
- systematically review
- systematically collect data
- systematically approach a problem
Word family
Explore
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- systematicallyadverb