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wholehearted

C2
adjective

Pronunciation

UK

  • /hˈəʊlhɑːtɪd/

US

  • /ˈhoʊlˌhɑrtɪd/

Description

To be wholehearted means to do, feel, or support something with complete sincerity, enthusiasm, and commitment. It is more than simply taking part; it means giving your full heart to it. Think of a child handing a parent a simple but deeply sincere drawing, or a musician putting real feeling into a performance. A wholehearted apology is not just the words "I'm sorry." It comes with real regret and a wish to do better. The word often suggests that there is no doubt, no holding back, and no hidden motive.

Examples

  1. 1

    School support

    The proposal has the wholehearted support of the school staff.

  2. 2

    Job adjustment

    She made a wholehearted effort to fit in at her new job.

  3. 3

    Personal commitment

    If you're going to train for a marathon, you need to be wholehearted about it.

    • Pattern

      be wholehearted about + goal/activity

      be fully committed to it

  4. 4

    Apology tone

    His apology sounded polite, but it didn't feel wholehearted.

  5. 5

    Community response

    The town gave a wholehearted response to the appeal for flood victims.

Forms and spellings

1 form open this card.

Main spelling

  • wholeheartedadjective