Part of Speech

Adverb

Pronunciation

/ˈɛvɪdəntli/

Definitions

• In a way that is clearly seen or understood; obviously.
• According to what seems to be true or appears to be the case; apparently.

Usage Examples

• The evidence was evidently clear to all present in the courtroom.
• He was evidently tired after the long journey.

Etymology

The word "evidently" comes from the Latin root "evidens," meaning 'clear or obvious,' with the addition of the adverbial suffix "-ly," indicating the manner in which something is done or perceived.

Synonyms

• Clearly
• Obviously
• Apparently
• Undoubtedly
• Manifestly

Antonyms

• Uncertainly
• Unclearly
• Ambiguously
• Dubiously

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

The pronunciation of "evidently" remains quite consistent across various English dialects, though regional accents may cause slight variations in vowel sounds and emphasis. For example, the American English pronunciation tends to stress the second syllable, while British English may place more emphasis on the first syllable.

Historical Usage

The word "evidently" has been used since the early 16th century, primarily in written texts where clarity and the appearance of truth were emphasized. It was often used in legal, philosophical, and scientific contexts to assert the obviousness of facts or conclusions.

Cultural Nuances

In modern usage, "evidently" is often employed to imply that something is so apparent that it does not need further explanation. However, in different cultures, what is "evident" may vary, as different social norms, values, and knowledge bases influence how people interpret facts or evidence.

More Information

The adverb "evidently" is commonly used in both formal and informal settings to express that something is clear or obvious from the situation or the facts. It is frequently used to introduce conclusions drawn from visible or apparent signs, indicating that the conclusion is a logical one based on observable evidence.