What does perfectly mean?
Perfectly is an adverb meaning either 'in a flawless manner' or, more broadly, 'completely and absolutely.' It is often used to describe something that has been carried out with great accuracy or without any noticeable fault, such as a performance, a procedure, or a result. In everyday English, it can also strengthen an adjective: 'perfectly possible' means entirely possible, while 'perfectly clear' means completely understandable. The word is useful because it can convey both precision and degree in a single expression. Its standard pronunciation places the main stress on the first syllable, with the second syllable receiving a lighter stress.
adverbIn a perfect manner, without any errors, flaws, or imperfections. It can also mean completely or entirely, depending on context.
- Without any error, flaw, or defect; in an ideal or flawless manner.
- To an absolute or complete degree; entirely or fully.
"The mechanism worked perfectly throughout the demonstration."
"The singer performed perfectly, giving the audience no cause for complaint."
"It is perfectly reasonable to ask for more time to consider the proposal."
The word 'perfect' comes from Latin perfectus, meaning 'completed' or 'made complete'—an idea still present in 'perfectly.'
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does perfectly come from?
The adverb developed from the English adjective 'perfect,' which came through Old French from Latin perfectus. Latin perfectus was formed from the prefix per-, meaning 'completely,' and the past participle of facere, 'to make,' giving the sense 'completely made' or 'finished.' The same Latin root underlies related English words including 'perfection,' 'imperfection,' and 'perfectionist.'
Related word forms
How perfectly is actually used
The word is common in both formal and informal English. When it means 'without error or flaw,' it generally describes a performance, result, or condition; when it means 'entirely,' it can emphasize a statement or degree, as in 'perfectly clear.'