circumstantially
circumstantially Lexical Profile
• adverb
In a manner that relies on indirect inference or surrounding facts rather than direct proof or observation.
"The prosecutor's case was built only circumstantially, as no eyewitnesses were present at the scene."
By way of incidental conditions, chance, or external situation rather than necessity or design.
"The two researchers met only circumstantially when their flights were delayed at the same airport."
With full, minute, and particular details regarding all surrounding conditions.
"The historian recounted the diplomatic negotiations circumstantially, omitting not a single exchange."
• Rhymes for circumstantially
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Formed from the adjective 'circumstantial' plus the adverbial suffix '-ly'. 'Circumstantial' derives from Latin 'circumstantia' ('a surrounding condition'), from 'circum-' ('around') and 'stare' ('to stand').
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.