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Definition of categorically

categorically

/ˌkæt̬.əˈɡɔːr.ɪ.kli/
cat · e · gor · i · cal · ly

Adjective:categorical
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categorically Lexical Profile

categorically Game Scores & Validity

• adverb

1

In a manner that is unambiguously explicit, direct, and without any exception, doubt, or qualification.

Example

"The spokesperson categorically denied the allegations of financial misconduct during the press conference."


2

According to or by means of distinct categories, classes, or divisions.

Example

"The survey responses were organized categorically so the research team could compare trends across different age groups."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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Word Nuance & Usage

In everyday usage, 'categorically' almost always means 'unconditionally' or 'without exception' (especially in phrases like 'categorically deny'), rather than 'by category'. To express arrangement into groups, 'by category' is usually preferred to avoid ambiguity.

• Rhymes for categorically

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in English from 'categorical' + '-ly', ultimately tracing back via Late Latin 'categoricus' to Ancient Greek 'kategorikos' (accusatory, affirmative, or absolute), from 'kategorein' (to assert or predicate).

Cite this Entry


Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Categorically. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/categorically
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