What does reassuringly mean?
Reassuringly is an adverb meaning in a way that gives someone reassurance, comfort, or confidence. It is especially common before an adjective: a person may speak reassuringly calm, a message may be reassuringly clear, or an update may sound reassuringly optimistic. The word suggests an effect on the listener, making the speaker, situation, or information seem safe and dependable. In ordinary conversation it is usually positive, although in informal or sarcastic contexts it can imply that something is presented as reassuring without actually being convincing. The adverb is derived from the adjective “reassuring” and ultimately from “reassure,” making its meaning closely connected with the related nouns “assurance” and “reassurance” and the verb “assure.” It is useful in both reassuring conversations and descriptions intended to criticize empty or misleading reassurance.
adverbIn a way that makes someone feel calmer, more confident, or more assured. It can also describe something that appears to provide reassurance, sometimes with an ironic implication.
- In a manner that gives someone reassurance or reduces anxiety.
- In a way that appears to be reassuring, sometimes with an ironic or skeptical suggestion.
"The doctor spoke reassuringly calm despite the seriousness of the diagnosis."
"The explanation was reassuringly clear, and the customer finally relaxed."
"He smiled reassuringly, although his expression suggested that the problem was serious."
A reassuringly calm voice can settle a room faster than a long explanation.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does reassuringly come from?
“Reassuringly” was formed by adding the adverbial suffix “-ly” to “reassuring,” a derivative of “reassure.” “Reassure” comes through French from Latin elements meaning “to make safe or secure,” and is related to “assure,” “assurance,” and “security.” The development reflects the older sense of restoring confidence or making someone feel safe.
How reassuringly is actually used
Commonly used before an adjective such as “calm,” “clear,” or “confident.” In informal contexts, its use can be ironic when the situation is actually troubling or unsatisfactory.
Easily confused with reassuringly
Assuringly describes something that gives confidence or certainty, whereas reassuringly describes something that specifically makes people feel calmer or less worried.