anonymously

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "anonymously" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to actions or contributions made without revealing one's identity. Example: "The survey allows participants to submit their responses anonymously to ensure privacy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Junk won the Carnegie Medal and the Guardian children's fiction prize in 1996. 5. Go Ask Alice by Anonymous Any anonymously written book tagged with the controversial label always piques the interest.

The Guardian

As always if you have any problems posting a comment, or would prefer to comment anonymously, email us at [email protected] and we'll add your views to the thread.

The Guardian

Anyone with information should contact the Beds, Cambs and Herts major crime unit on 101, or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.

The Guardian

Anyone with information is asked to call police in Greater Manchester Police's Major Incident Team on 01618569283 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800555111.

The Guardian

If you have any problems posting a comment, or would prefer to comment anonymously, email us at [email protected] and we'll add your views.

The Guardian

But the worst, serious abuse I've got was a lengthy email, sent anonymously after I wrote about Muslim marriage contracts, and listing everything they didn't like about me, saying my marriage was "fucked", that I was an "epic failure", and that I "didn't deserve happiness".

The Guardian - Opinion

We've lost the ability to read anonymously.

The Guardian - Tech

If you're feeling very adventurous, you can dabble with Tor, a network of virtual tunnels that allows individuals to surf the web and communicate anonymously.

The Guardian - Tech

At the time, one army official in Swat, who spoke anonymously to the Guardian, contradicted the claims by several lawyers, insisting only two men had been convicted.

The Guardian

I can anonymously threaten researchers online, especially the female ones.

The Guardian

Even now, two years on from losing his seat, Khan produces letters which he says were sent to him anonymously alleging where significant future spending cuts will fall.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "anonymously", ensure the context clearly indicates why the anonymity is important, such as protecting privacy or encouraging honesty.

Common error

Avoid using "anonymously" in casual conversation or informal writing where the lack of identification isn't a significant factor. Simpler terms like "privately" or "secretly" might be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The adverb "anonymously" modifies verbs, adverbs, or adjectives to describe an action performed without revealing the actor's identity. Ludwig shows that it's often used to ensure privacy or impartiality, like in "speak "anonymously"."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Formal & Business

5%

Science

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "anonymously" is an adverb used to describe actions performed without revealing one's identity, primarily to ensure privacy, safety, or impartiality. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is grammatically sound and frequently used in news and media, with a neutral to formal register. When writing, consider the context to determine if "anonymously" is the most fitting term or if alternatives like "without attribution" or "confidentially" might be more appropriate. Ludwig also underlines that while the term is common in formal contexts, avoid overuse in casual conversation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Without attribution

Emphasizes the lack of credited source or origin.

Nameless

Highlights the absence of a known name.

Unidentified

Focuses on the lack of a recognized identity.

Without acknowledgment

Focuses on the lack of public recognition.

Confidentially

Stresses the secrecy and privacy of the action.

In secret

Highlights the hidden nature of the action.

Off the record

Indicates information not intended for public release.

Privately

Indicates that the action is done in a non-public manner, though not necessarily without a name.

Behind the scenes

Suggests actions that are not publicly visible.

Undercover

Implies a hidden or secret operation.

FAQs

How can I use "anonymously" in a sentence?

You can use "anonymously" to describe actions done without revealing one's identity, such as "The survey allows participants to respond "anonymously" to ensure honest feedback."

What are some alternatives to saying "anonymously"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "without attribution", "confidentially", or "in secret" instead of "anonymously".

Is it always necessary to specify why something is done "anonymously"?

While not always required, specifying the reason for anonymity enhances clarity and context. For instance, stating "Participants can submit feedback "anonymously" to protect their privacy" provides a clearer understanding.

What is the difference between "anonymously" and "privately"?

"Anonymously" implies that the identity is completely unknown or concealed, while "privately" suggests that the action is not public, but the identity might still be known to some individuals.