What does accusatively mean?
Accusatively is a specialized grammatical adverb meaning “in the accusative case.” It is used when a speaker or writer discusses a word, phrase, or construction that functions as the direct object of a verb or follows certain prepositions in the relevant language. It may also be used in translation commentary when a source form has to be rendered in the target language’s accusative rather than reproduced literally. Although the word can sound severe or confrontational because of its association with accusation, in grammatical contexts it is neutral and technical. Accusative forms are especially important in languages such as Latin, German, and Greek, whose case systems mark relationships among words more explicitly than English usually does. Knowing that “accusatively” means “in the accusative case,” rather than “as an accusation,” helps readers follow grammatical explanations and makes otherwise specialized commentary easier to interpret.
adverbIn the accusative case, especially when describing the grammatical treatment of a word or phrase.
- In or with reference to the accusative case.
"The translator rendered the pronoun accusatively because the target language required a formal case ending."
"The translator rendered the pronoun accusatively because the target language required a formal case ending."
"In the sentence “We saw them,” the pronoun “them” is used accusatively."
Accusative sounds like an accusation, but in grammar it names the case that often receives the action—and every “him” in “I saw him” lives there.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Words that share this root
Related word forms
How accusatively is actually used
This is chiefly a formal, technical term used in grammar, translation, and linguistics. It is uncommon in everyday conversation.
Easily confused with accusatively
Accusatively refers to grammatical case, whereas accusatorily describes the manner of making an accusation.
Accusative is a noun or adjective naming a grammatical case, while accusatively is the adverb meaning in that case.