unquestionably
A2Pronunciation
UK
- /ʌnkwˈɛstʃənəbli/
US
- /ənˈkwɛstʃənəbli/
Description
- Certainly
- definitely
- without a doubt
- beyond dispute
- clearly
If something is described as being unquestionably true, it is so clear and certain that it is very hard to argue against it. Think of a master chess player making a brilliant move: it seems unquestionably the best play, leaving opponents speechless. Or imagine the first warm day after a long, harsh winter; the change in the air is unquestionably welcome.
The word points to something so obvious or so well proven that doubt seems unreasonable. It is much stronger than "probably" or "likely." You might say a detective has unquestionably solved a case if the evidence is clear, or that a legendary musician is unquestionably gifted. Be careful, though: using "unquestionably" can sometimes sound a bit arrogant. It shows that you are leaving almost no room for someone else's opinion.
"Unquestionably" is an adverb meaning without a doubt; certainly; definitely. It describes something that is so clear, obvious, or well-proven that it cannot be disputed. It suggests a level of certainty that goes beyond mere belief; it implies a factual or logical finality that leaves no room for argument.
The word carries significant weight and implies strong conviction. You would not typically say "It's unquestionably raining" if there were only a light drizzle; you would reserve it for a torrential downpour that no one could miss. Similarly, you might state, "Her dedication to the project is unquestionably admirable" when someone has consistently gone above and beyond all expectations.
In form, "unquestionably" comes from the adjective "unquestionable" plus the adverb ending "-ly," highlighting that the subject is not open to serious doubt. It is frequently used in formal writing, legal contexts, or persuasive speech to emphasize a point and convey strong certainty.
However, be mindful of its tone. While it conveys confidence, using "unquestionably" too frequently can make a speaker appear dogmatic or dismissive of other viewpoints. It is best reserved for situations where the truth is genuinely beyond dispute or where you want to make a powerful, definitive claim. If you declare that something is unquestionably true, be prepared to stand your ground. If you have used the word well, your listener will understand that you mean there is almost no room for doubt.
Examples
- 1
Job selection
She is unquestionably the best candidate for the role.
- 2
Safety results
The new safety rules have unquestionably reduced the number of accidents.
- 3
Price judgment
It's unquestionably expensive, but the quality is excellent.
- 4
Talent assessment
He was unquestionably talented, even if he was difficult to work with.
- 5
Formal emphasis
Unquestionably, the company should have responded faster.
Usage
Sentence-initial Unquestionably is more formal and adds strong emphasis
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- unquestionablyadverb