Officially
əˈfɪʃəli
Definitions
In a manner that is authorized, sanctioned, or approved, often by an authority.
əˈfɪʃəli
In a formal or authorized way.
The school officially announced the date of the school picnic.
💡 Simply: Imagine your parents *officially* allow you to have a sleepover – that means it's approved and not just a sneaky plan! It's like saying it's the real deal, not just a rumor.
👶 For kids: When something happens 'officially,' it means grown-ups in charge said it's okay or it's a real thing, like when the principal says there's no school.
More Examples
The president officially declared the end of the war.
They officially launched the new spacecraft.
The company officially merged with its competitor.
How It's Used
"The government officially announced the new policy."
"The company officially launched its new product."
"The referee officially ended the match."
Idioms & expressions
officially speaking
Used to indicate that a statement is being made formally or according to official procedures.
"Officially speaking, the company denies all wrongdoing."
official capacity
In a role or position that is formally recognized and authorized.
"He attended the meeting in his official capacity as a representative."
From Middle English 'officiel', from Old French 'official' (relating to an office or duty), from Latin 'officialis' (belonging to an office), from 'officium' (office).
The word has been used consistently since the 17th century, particularly in legal and administrative contexts, signifying actions taken with authorization.
Memory tip
Think of an *official* who makes sure things are done correctly. *Officially* means things are done according to the rules.