WordGarden.iounanimously
C1Pronunciation
UK
- /juːnˈænɪməsli/
US
- /juˈnænəməsli/
Meanings
Adverb
with complete agreement among everyone involved
Beyond the definition
Imagine a group of friends deciding where to go for pizza. If everyone agrees on pepperoni - no arguments, no different opinions - they have decided unanimously. It means complete agreement, as if everyone spoke with a single voice.
"Unanimously" is not just about simple agreement; it shows a strong group decision. A jury might find someone guilty or not guilty unanimously, meaning all twelve jurors reached the same conclusion. You will often hear it in formal settings like meetings, elections, or court cases where a clear group decision is needed. Think of it as more than just "everyone said yes" - it means absolutely everyone agreed, without a single objection.
The word "unanimously" describes a situation where all parties involved agree on something completely and without dissent. It comes from the Latin roots unus (one) and animus (mind), literally meaning "of one mind." This highlights the core idea of complete unity in opinion or decision-making.
You'll most often encounter "unanimously" when describing formal votes, resolutions, or decisions made by groups. For example, if a committee votes unanimously to approve a new budget, it means every single member supported the proposal without any opposition.
It's a powerful word that emphasizes the strength and clarity of an agreement. While people might mostly agree on something, it's only truly unanimous if everyone is in accord. It suggests a level of consensus that goes beyond simple majority rule. You wouldn't say your family unanimously decided to watch a movie if even one person grumbled about the choice; true unanimity requires complete and wholehearted agreement from all involved.
So, when you hear something described as happening "unanimously," picture a group perfectly aligned in thought and action—a chorus of voices speaking with one clear, unified voice.
Examples
- 1
Committee vote
The committee voted unanimously to extend the deadline.
- 2
Team selection
She was unanimously chosen as team captain.
- Patternbe unanimously chosen
everyone chooses the same person
- 3
Budget approval
After a short discussion, the board unanimously approved the budget.
- 4
Legal judgment
The judges unanimously agreed that the evidence was too weak.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Critical reviews
The performance was unanimously praised by reviewers.
See also
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- unanimouslyadverb