What does superlatively mean?
Superlatively is an adverb meaning to the greatest possible degree or in an exceptionally forceful manner. It is closely related to superlative, the grammatical category marking the highest degree of comparison, but superlatively is not itself a grammatical marker; it normally functions as an ordinary -ly adverb modifying a verb or an adjective. In phrases such as “the evidence speaks superlatively” or “she superlatively praised the craftsmanship,” it conveys absolute or emphatic approval, often with a formal or literary tone. Because English can usually express extreme degree more simply with “extremely,” “highly,” or “most,” superlatively is relatively uncommon in everyday speech, though it can be effective in rhetoric, criticism, and formal prose. Its rarity can make a sentence sound elevated or deliberately emphatic, so writers should use it when the degree of praise or force is genuinely central rather than as an ornamental substitute for “very.”
adverbTo the greatest possible degree or with exceptional force or approval. It can characterize something as being of the highest quality or as expressing the strongest possible praise.
- To the greatest possible degree, especially with exceptional force, quality, or approval.
"The critics praised the restoration superlatively, calling it the finest example of the architect's work."
"She superlatively praised the guide's knowledge of the region."
"The evidence speaks superlatively for the proposal's effectiveness."
Superlatively turns a superlative into a manner of speaking: it does not simply compare, but speaks at the highest possible level.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does superlatively come from?
The English adverb was formed by adding the suffix -ly to superlative. Superlative entered Middle English from a Medieval Latin form based on Latin superlativus, which combined super- (“above” or “beyond”) with latus (“carried”), originally conveying the sense of something raised above others. Its relatives superior and supreme ultimately derive from the same Latin prefix super-.
How superlatively is actually used
Formal, literary, and relatively uncommon in everyday speech. It often conveys emphatic praise or approval and may sound elevated or deliberately forceful.
Easily confused with superlatively
Superlative is the adjective identifying the highest degree in a comparison, while superlatively is the adverb describing the manner or degree of an action or assessment.