What does interestingly mean?
Interestingly is an adverb used to draw attention to a fact, comparison, or observation that seems noteworthy, surprising, or worth considering. It often appears at the beginning of a sentence, especially before an unexpected result or striking contrast: “Interestingly, the two approaches produced very different outcomes.” A related use is the expression “interestingly enough,” which introduces a detail that happens to be especially relevant or revealing. In another sense, the word describes something occurring in a way that arouses curiosity or engages attention. Its tone is generally neutral, making it suitable for conversation, journalism, and academic discussion, although speakers sometimes use it loosely as a conversational filler. The word is especially useful when a statement is intended to shift a reader’s perspective or emphasize an unexpected connection, though repetition can make its effect less strong.
adverbIn a way that is noteworthy, surprising, or likely to attract attention. It is also commonly used to introduce an unexpected observation or contrast.
- Used to introduce a fact, comparison, or observation that is noteworthy, unexpected, or thought-provoking.
- Used to indicate that something occurs or develops in a way that arouses curiosity or attention.
"Interestingly, the two languages share many words despite being spoken thousands of miles apart."
"Interestingly, the latest research challenges several widely held assumptions."
"The old building looks surprisingly modern inside, interestingly enough."
Interestingly can do double duty: it introduces a surprising fact while also suggesting that the fact deserves your attention.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does interestingly come from?
Interestingly was formed in English by adding the adverbial suffix “-ly” to the adjective “interesting.” Its base word “interest” comes through Old French from Latin “interesse,” a form related to “inter-” and meaning originally to be between or to be of importance. “Interested,” “interesting,” and “disinterested” belong to the same broad etymological family, although they developed different meanings and uses.
Related word forms
How interestingly is actually used
Interestingly is neutral in register and common in speech, journalism, and academic writing. In informal contexts, it can sometimes function as a general attention-getter, so its presence does not always guarantee that the following information is genuinely surprising.