en English es español fr française it italiano de deutsche ja 日本語 pl polski cs česky sv svenska tr Türkçe nl Nederlands

"Totally" vs. "completely": exploring two sides of fullness

Reviewed and edited by Anwar Kareem 21/10/2024, 12:04
English.me team member
Totally and completely. What's the difference?

What is similar?

Both words are adverbs used to emphasize the entirety or full extent of something. They often indicate that something is done to the fullest degree or that nothing is left undone.

What is different?

The contexts where they are used can vary slightly. "Totally" is often used in informal speech and can sometimes have a casual or conversational tone. "Completely" tends to be more neutral and may be used more in formal writing or situations.

Which one is more common?

Internet search results for totally) and completely

Examples of usage

Totally
  • I am totally convinced that this is the right choice.
  • She was totally surprised by the party.
  • He totally understood the concept after the explanation.
Completely
  • The building is completely destroyed.
  • She was completely focused on her work.
  • I completely agree with your point of view.

Recommended posts in Difference

"Offender" and "culprit": different shades of guilt

"Offender" and "culprit": different shades of guilt

"Offender" is a general term often used in legal contexts ... Learn more →

"Cautious" vs. "prudent": comparing careful choices

"Cautious" vs. "prudent": comparing careful choices

While "cautious" generally emphasizes avoiding danger or risk with careful ... Learn more →

"Revival" vs. "rebirth": a tale of two comebacks

"Revival" vs. "rebirth": a tale of two comebacks

While "revival" implies a return to a former state or ... Learn more →

"Tour" vs. "itinerary": mapping their meanings

"Tour" vs. "itinerary": mapping their meanings

A "tour" typically refers to the act of traveling or ... Learn more →