What does auspiciously mean?
"Auspiciously" is a formal adverb describing actions or events that occur in a way that promises success or good fortune. When something happens auspiciously — a business opens, a marriage begins, a negotiation starts — circumstances seem to favor a happy outcome, whether through visible early signs of success or through a general atmosphere of promise. The word derives from the Latin "auspex," a Roman official who foretold events by observing the behavior of birds; something done under good "auspices" was believed blessed by favorable omens. Today the religious element has faded, leaving only the sense of encouraging beginnings. The adverb is most often paired with words like "begin," "open," "start," and "debut." Its opposite, "inauspiciously," describes unpromising starts. Because it sounds similar but means nearly the reverse of "suspiciously," writers should take care not to confuse them.
adverbIn a way that suggests a favorable or promising outcome; characterized by good omens, success, or fortunate circumstances.
- In a manner indicating or suggesting a favorable outcome; with good omens.
- (Of events) at a time marked by fortunate circumstances or early success.
"The new restaurant opened auspiciously, drawing a full house on its very first night."
"The negotiations began auspiciously, with both sides expressing genuine goodwill."
"Her career started auspiciously when her debut novel won a major literary prize."
The word carries ancient Rome in its DNA: the "auspex" was a bird-watching priest who read omens in the flight of eagles before any major decision.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of auspiciously
"Auspiciously" comes from "auspicious," which entered English in the late 16th to early 17th century from Latin "auspex" (plural "auspicum"), literally one who observes birds (avis + specere). Roman augurs read the flights and calls of birds as omens before important undertakings, so events under good auspices were considered favored by the gods. The adjective "auspicious" took on the extended sense of "favorable, promising," and the adverb formed with the standard -ly suffix. Cognate English forms include "auspice" and "auspices," which survive in the phrase "under the auspices of."
Related word forms
How auspiciously is actually used
Register: formal to semi-formal. Common in journalism and literary writing, especially describing beginnings — launches, openings, debuts, negotiations, careers. Carries an entirely positive connotation. Rare in casual conversation.
Easily confused with auspiciously
"Suspiciously" means in a manner arousing distrust or doubt, while "auspiciously" means in a promising or favorable manner — near-opposites that differ by only a few letters.
"Inauspiciously" is the direct negative of "auspiciously," meaning in an unpromising or unfavorable way.