What does metrically mean?
Metrically is the adverb form of metrical and means in accordance with meter or measured rhythm. Its most familiar use is in discussions of poetry, where it describes the arrangement of stressed and unstressed syllables, the underlying pattern of beats, and the relationship between lines. A line may be metrically regular, irregular, incomplete, or complex, and a poem or stanza may be judged metrically according to the conventions of a particular metre. In music, the word can refer more broadly to rhythm governed by recurring beats and measures. It may also be used when comparing systems of measurement, as in describing two products as metrically compatible. Although ordinary speakers often use “rhythmically” as a less formal alternative, “metrically” is especially valuable in literary analysis because it points specifically to the measurable organization of poetic or musical time rather than rhythm in its broader sense.
adverbIn accordance with or with respect to meter; according to the measured rhythm of poetry, music, or speech.
- In accordance with or with respect to meter, especially in poetry or music.
"The verses must be scanned metrically before the metre can be judged."
"The poem reads differently when it is spoken metrically rather than conversationally."
"The two versions are metrically compatible, although their rhythms differ."
The heartbeat of poetry is metrically structured: its stress patterns turn a line of words into measured rhythm.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does metrically come from?
The adverb comes from the adjective metrical, which was borrowed from Medieval Latin metricalis. That form was derived from the Greek metron, meaning “measure,” the same root found in metre, metric, metrology, and metronome. In English, metrical became especially associated with the systematic arrangement of syllables and stresses in verse.
Related word forms
How metrically is actually used
Most common in literary and musical discussion. It can also refer more broadly to behaviour governed by a system of measurement, but such usage is less frequent.
Easily confused with metrically
Metrical is the adjective relating to metre, while metrically is its adverb form.
Meticulous means extremely careful about details, whereas metrically means in accordance with a system of measurement or rhythm.