What does objectively mean?
Objectively is an adverb meaning in a way that is based on facts and impartial criteria rather than personal feelings, preferences, or bias. It is commonly used to describe assessments, analyses, decisions, judgments, or discussions that are intended to be fair and independent of the people involved. A person who evaluates evidence objectively is expected to consider relevant facts and apply consistent standards, while setting aside personal advantage, emotion, or unsupported assumptions. The word is especially common in academic, legal, journalistic, and professional writing, and it often conveys greater formality than words such as fairly. Objectivity does not mean that every judgment is infallible: even an objective assessment depends on the evidence available, the criteria selected, and the interpretation applied. Nevertheless, the adverb signals a deliberate effort to distinguish factual or reasoned evaluation from subjective preference.
adverbIn a way that is based on facts and impartial judgment rather than personal feelings, bias, or speculation.
- Based on facts or impartial criteria and unaffected by personal feelings, preferences, or bias.
"The committee assessed the proposal objectively and reached a decision based on the available evidence."
"The referee tried to judge the incident objectively, focusing only on what the video showed."
"Her analysis presents the competing arguments objectively without endorsing either side."
Objectively means without personal bias, yet the objectivity of a judgment ultimately depends on which facts and criteria are considered relevant.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does objectively come from?
Objectively derives from objective, which in turn comes from the Latin objective, meaning “presented for judgment” or “placed before one.” The Latin word was formed from ob-, meaning “toward” or “before,” and jectus, the past participle of jacere, “to throw.” English borrowed the Latin form in the 16th century, and the adverb objectively developed during the 17th century.
Related word forms
How objectively is actually used
The adverb is formal and common in academic, legal, journalistic, and professional contexts. It implies impartiality or reliance on explicit criteria, though it does not by itself guarantee that the facts or standards being applied are complete or unbiased.
Easily confused with objectively
Objectively describes a judgment based on facts or impartial criteria, whereas subjectively describes a judgment influenced by personal feelings, experiences, or preferences.