Meaning & Definition of word "Purely"

Purely

/ˈpjʊrli/

adverb:

  • 1. In a pure manner; without mixture or dilution; solely.
    • Example: His motivations for helping were purely altruistic.
  • 2. Entirely or exclusively.
    • Example: The decision was purely financial and had nothing to do with personal feelings.
  • 3. For the sake of something's essence or authenticity.
    • Example: She was purely focused on completing her project.
  • 4. Only; simply.
    • Example: This is purely a theoretical discussion.
  • 5. In a way that is not influenced by any other factor.
    • Example: The results were purely coincidental.

Etymology

Middle English: from Old French 'purlie', from Latin 'purus' (pure).

Common Phrases and Expressions

purely coincidental:

happening by chance without any connection to other events.

purely academic:

related only to theoretical matters, without practical application.

purely speculative:

based on guesswork rather than concrete evidence.

Related Words

pure:

not mixed or adulterated; free from any contamination.

purify:

to make pure by removing contaminants.

Slang Meanings of purely

Meaning: Just for the sake of it

Example Sentence: I did it purely for fun.

Meaning: Only for a specific purpose

Example Sentence: She called me purely for the gossip.