Thankfully

Definition

Thankfully is an adverb that indicates a feeling or expression of gratitude. It's often used to express relief that something has or hasn't happened.

Parts of Speech

• Adverb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈθæŋkfəli/
• Respelling: THANK-ful-lee (with "THANK" as in "thank," "ful" as in "full," and "lee" as in "see")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈθæŋkfʊli/
• Respelling: THANK-ful-lee (similar to American English, with "THANK" as in "thank," "ful" as in "full," and "lee" like in "see")

In both dialects, "thankfully" is pronounced with the primary stress on the first syllable, "THANK." The word is consistent across both American and British English, with a slight variation in the pronunciation of the "ful" part, reflecting the nuances of accent and dialect.

Etymology

The word "thankfully" derives from the Middle English word "thanken," which means "to give thanks," combined with the suffix “-ful” to indicate the fullness of thanks, and the adverbial suffix “-ly.”

Derivatives

• Thankful (adjective)
• Thankfulness (noun)

Synonyms

• Gratefully
• Appreciatively
• With relief

Antonyms

• Unthankfully
• Discontentedly
• Displeasedly

Usage

• "Thankfully" is utilized to express a sense of relief or gratitude in a situation, often indicating a favorable outcome or avoiding an unfavorable situation.

Related Terms

• Gratitude
• Relief
• Appreciation
• Thanks
• Grateful

Detailed Definition

Adverb

• Expression of Gratitude: Used to express happiness or relief that something has or hasn’t occurred.
• Example: Thankfully, the rain stopped just before the outdoor ceremony began.

• Feeling Thankful: In a manner showing or expressing thanks.
• Example: She spoke thankfully after receiving the help she needed.