vehemently
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /vˈiəməntli/
US
- /ˈviəməntli/
- /vəˈhiməntli/
Description
- passionately
- forcefully
- with intense conviction
Imagine someone believing something so strongly that they cannot say it in a calm, casual way. That is what "vehemently" describes. It means expressing an opinion, feeling, or reaction with great force and strong emotion. You might vehemently disagree with a political idea, or vehemently defend a friend who is being treated unfairly.
Think of a lawyer giving a closing argument. They do not simply state their case; they press it with intensity, hoping to move the jury. It is not just about being loud. It is about the strength and feeling behind the words.
"Vehemently" describes expressing something with intense passion, forcefulness, and conviction. It's not simply stating an opinion; it's delivering it with such strong feeling that it leaves no room for doubt about your position. For example: "She vehemently denied the accusations," means she rejected them with powerful emotion and absolute certainty.
The word implies a level of emotional investment beyond simple agreement or disagreement. You might vehemently oppose a new law, meaning you feel strongly against it and may actively fight against its implementation. While the word can describe unwavering support for a cause, it most often appears in contexts involving conflict, debate, or defense. In fact, you will rarely hear someone "vehemently agree"—the word usually accompanies a rejection, a protest, or a heated denial.
"Vehemently" carries a weight of emotion and urgency. While "strongly" or "forcefully" can convey similar meanings, "vehemently" adds a layer of passionate intensity that sets it apart. It's a powerful adverb to use when you want to emphasize the depth of someone's feelings, suggesting that they are putting their entire heart and soul into their words.
Examples
- 1
Education policy
Local teachers vehemently opposed the school cuts.
- 2
Strong denial
He vehemently denied taking any money.
- 3
Personal objection
She vehemently objected to the idea of moving the wedding.
- 4
Legal argument
In court, the lawyer vehemently argued that the search had been illegal.
- 5
Public criticism
Even after the criticism, the director vehemently defended the film.
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- vehementlyadverb