What does assuredly mean?
Assuredly is a formal adverb meaning with certainty or confidence; it conveys that something is beyond doubt. It appears most often in written, literary, legal, and rhetorical English, lending a sentence an air of authority and deliberation. In one common use, it simply intensifies a claim: “The reforms will assuredly improve outcomes.” In another, it serves as a polished, affirmative reply — asked whether he would attend, the ambassador answered, “Assuredly.” The word derives from assure, which traces through Old French back to Latin securus, meaning free from care or safe, so to speak assuredly is literally to speak from a position of security. A well-known emphatic variant, “most assuredly,” has been favored by statesmen and novelists alike. Though it can sound stately or even slightly archaic in everyday speech, assuredly remains a useful tool for writers who want their certainty to sound considered rather than casual.
With certainty; definitely; without doubt.
"He will assuredly regret his decision."
Often set off by commas when inserted mid-sentence for emphasis.
Used as a formal or polite expression of agreement or affirmation; certainly yes.
"“Are you coming with us?” “Assuredly.”"
Slightly old-fashioned but lends a dignified, courteous tone.
"Most assuredly" was a favorite flourish of Victorian speakers — and it still adds an unmistakable air of confidence to any sentence it lands in.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of assuredly
Assuredly comes from the verb assure, which entered English from Old French assurer in the late Middle Ages. The French verb itself derives from the Latin ad- (“to”) plus securus, meaning “safe” or “free from care,” the same root that gives us secure and sure. The adverb assuredly was formed by adding the native suffix -ly to the past participle assured, and it has been used since at least the early modern period to express confident certainty.
Related word forms
How assuredly is actually used
Somewhat formal and slightly old-fashioned in tone; common in literary, legal, and rhetorical contexts rather than casual conversation. The fixed phrase "most assuredly" is an emphatic intensifier. When used alone in reply to a question, it functions as a dignified way of saying yes.
Easily confused with assuredly
"Assured" is an adjective meaning confident or guaranteed (or a noun in insurance for the person covered), while "assuredly" is the adverb form meaning certainly.