Physically
/ˈfɪzɪkli/
Definitions
2 meaningsIn a way that is related to the body or the material world, as opposed to the mind or spirit.
/ˈfɪzɪkli/
In a way that relates to the body or the material world.
The doctor examined her physically.
💡 Simply: It's how your body feels or what you can touch and see, like running and jumping. If you're physically tired, you're tired in your body, not your brain.
👶 For kids: It's like when something happens with your body, like when you run or get a hug.
More Examples
The injury made it physically impossible for her to run.
The construction worker used a hammer to physically build the house.
How It's Used
"She exercises physically every day."
"He was physically fit and ready for the competition."
Using physical force or contact; not mentally or emotionally.
/ˈfɪzɪkli/
By force or through direct contact.
He was physically assaulted.
💡 Simply: It means using your body to do something, like pushing a door open or fighting someone. It's not just thinking about it, it's actually doing it.
👶 For kids: When you use your body to do something, like pushing someone or carrying a toy.
More Examples
The guards physically blocked the entrance.
They physically removed the obstacles.
How It's Used
"The police physically restrained the suspect."
"The protesters were physically removed from the building."
Synonyms
Idioms & expressions
physically present
Being in the same location as something or someone.
"Although she was invited, she wasn't physically present at the meeting."
From Middle English *physik* (related to medicine) + -ly. The 'physical' sense evolved from the original medical/natural science meaning.
The term's usage has evolved from describing natural science concepts to encompassing actions and states of being related to the body.
Memory tip
Think of how your body feels (physically).