Undoubtedly

Definition

Undoubtedly means without doubt; certainly.

Parts of Speech

• Adverb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ʌnˈdaʊtɪdli/
• Respelling: uhn-DOWT-id-lee (with "uhn" as a schwa sound like the 'u' in "fun," "DOWT" rhyming with "out," "id" as in "did," and "lee" as in "see")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ʌnˈdaʊtɪdli/
• Respelling: uhn-DOWT-id-lee (similar to American English, with "uhn" as in "fun," "DOWT" like in "out," "id" as in "did," and "lee" as in "see")

In both dialects, "undoubtedly" is pronounced with the primary stress on the "DOWT" syllable. The word starts with "uhn," a schwa sound akin to the 'u' in "fun," followed by "DOWT," which rhymes with "out," then "id" as in "did," and ending with "lee," as in "see." The pronunciation is quite similar between American and British English.

Etymology

The term "undoubtedly" is derived from Middle English "undoutely", from "un-" (meaning "not") + "doutely" (related to "doubt"). It evolved to represent a state or condition of having no doubt or being certain.

Derivatives

• Undoubted
• Undoubting
• Undoubtful
• Undoubtingly
• Undoubtfulness

Synonyms

• Certainly
• Definitely
• Unquestionably

Antonyms

• Doubtfully
• Uncertainly
• Ambiguously

Usage

• "She is undoubtedly the best athlete in the team."
• "The sun will undoubtedly rise tomorrow."

Related Terms

• Certainty
• Assurance
• Confidence
• Conviction
• Positivity

Detailed Definition

Adverb

• With Certainty: In a manner that leaves no room for doubt; most assuredly or certainly.
• Example: His talent was undoubtedly recognized by everyone at the event.

• Emphasizing Truth: Used to emphasize the truth of a statement.
• Example: That was undoubtedly the most beautiful performance I've ever seen.