Deliberately
/dɪˈlɪb(ə)rətli/
Definitions
2 meaningsIn a careful and intentional manner; consciously.
/dɪˈlɪb(ə)rətli/
With intention; on purpose; consciously
He deliberately tripped the other runner during the race.
💡 Simply: It's like when you *know* you're doing something, and you're doing it on purpose. Like, you might deliberately take the last cookie even though you know someone else wants it!
👶 For kids: Doing something on purpose, not by accident.
More Examples
She deliberately chose the difficult path to challenge herself.
The artist deliberately used bold colors to make the painting stand out.
How It's Used
"The defendant deliberately caused the accident."
"She deliberately ignored his text messages."
In a slow and careful manner, often to achieve a specific effect.
/dɪˈlɪb(ə)rətli/
Slowly and carefully; in a careful and thoughtful way
The surgeon deliberately made each incision with precision.
💡 Simply: It means doing something slowly and carefully to get it right or to make a point. Think of someone deliberately taking their time to explain something because they want you to fully understand.
👶 For kids: Doing something slowly and carefully to make sure it's done right.
More Examples
The pianist deliberately played the slow movement to emphasize the sorrow.
The chef deliberately prepared the sauce by carefully selecting each ingredient.
How It's Used
"The machine was deliberately calibrated to ensure accuracy."
"The artist deliberately used slow brushstrokes."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
deliberate speed
A legal term meaning to proceed at a thoughtful but efficient pace.
"The court ordered the desegregation of the schools with deliberate speed."
From Middle English *deliberat*, from Latin *deliberatus*, past participle of *deliberare* ('to consider carefully').
The word's usage has remained consistent since its emergence, carrying the same core meaning of intentionality.
Memory tip
Imagine you're deliberating (thinking carefully) before you do something; you're acting deliberately.
Word Origin
"To consider carefully"