Consciously
'kɑnʃəsli
Definitions
2 meaningsIn a way that shows you are aware of something; intentionally.
'kɑnʃəsli
With awareness; in a deliberate or intentional way.
He consciously made an effort to be polite.
💡 Simply: It means doing something when you're thinking about it and know what's happening. Like when you *consciously* choose to eat a healthy snack instead of candy.
👶 For kids: Doing something on purpose, like when you *consciously* decide to share your toys.
More Examples
She consciously chose to ignore the distraction.
The artist consciously used color to evoke specific emotions.
How It's Used
"Therapists often try to help patients to act consciously in their daily lives."
"She consciously avoided the topic of politics at the dinner party."
In a way that shows you are aware of your surroundings and what is happening.
'kɑnʃəsli
Being aware of and responding to one's surroundings.
Despite the injury, the athlete consciously continued the race.
💡 Simply: It's like being awake and aware of what is going on around you. For example, after a nap you are *consciously* aware of the world again.
👶 For kids: When you know what is happening around you, you are doing it *consciously*.
More Examples
The doctor asked if the patient was consciously experiencing pain.
She was consciously trying to understand the complex concept.
How It's Used
"The patient was consciously breathing throughout the operation."
"He was consciously aware of the changes happening in his society."
From the Latin 'conscius' meaning 'knowing, aware', combined with the suffix '-ly' to form an adverb. 'Conscius' itself derives from 'com-' (with, together) and 'scire' (to know).
The word 'consciously' emerged in the late 17th century, reflecting the growing interest in introspection and the mind.
Memory tip
Think of a 'conscious' decision, made deliberately, adding '-ly' makes it the adverb, 'consciously.'