entirely so

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "entirely so" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to affirm or agree completely with a statement or sentiment expressed previously. Example: "Do you believe that honesty is the best policy? I think it is entirely so."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Not entirely so.

The Economist

But it is not entirely so.

The New York Times

But this is not entirely so," the Coroner concluded.

Independent

It's a heroic image, though not entirely so.

The New York Times - Arts

The first is largely right, the second entirely so.

The Economist

In a sense he was conscious but not entirely so.

Independent

In this they were mistaken, but not entirely so.

The New York Times

MATTATHIAS SCHWARTZ: Marco, this is partly correct, but not entirely so.

The New Yorker

They are "autobiographical in feeling, though not, sometimes, entirely so in fact," she writes.

The New York Times - Books

When he examines his "memory loop", events are clearer, but never entirely so.

The Economist

"That battle", he says, "is won," which seems to make him happy, though not entirely so.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "entirely so", ensure that the context clearly supports such a strong affirmation. It's most effective when the previous statement is undeniably true or accurate.

Common error

Avoid using "entirely so" in casual or informal conversations, as it can sound overly formal or stilted. Opt for more natural alternatives like "absolutely" or "exactly" in such settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "entirely so" functions as an adverbial phrase that modifies a verb or clause, expressing complete agreement or affirmation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is considered grammatically correct. The examples illustrate its role in reinforcing previously stated ideas.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

19%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "entirely so" functions as an adverbial phrase used to express complete agreement or affirmation. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for use across various contexts. While it sees substantial use in news, media, and scientific publications, it can occasionally sound formal in casual settings. The alternative options, such as "absolutely" or "exactly", may be better suited for informal contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

entirely accurate

Highlights the complete and flawless accuracy of the information.

completely true

Focuses on the truth aspect of a statement being entirely correct.

absolutely right

Emphasizes the correctness of an assertion without reservation.

undeniably so

Highlights the indisputable nature of a statement.

perfectly correct

Stresses the flawlessness of a statement.

exactly so

Indicates precise agreement with what was previously stated.

precisely right

Highlights both accuracy and correctness.

wholly accurate

Emphasizes the total accuracy of the information.

altogether correct

Suggests comprehensive correctness in all aspects.

fully justified

Highlights that some decision or action is well grounded and legitimate.

FAQs

How can I use "entirely so" in a sentence?

Use "entirely so" to express complete agreement with a prior statement. For example, if someone says, "Honesty is the best policy," you could respond, "I believe that is "entirely so"."

What are some alternatives to "entirely so"?

You can use alternatives like "absolutely", "completely", "exactly", or "precisely" depending on the context.

Is "entirely so" formal or informal?

"Entirely so" leans toward the formal side. In casual conversation, simpler alternatives like "totally" or "completely agree" might be more appropriate.

Can I use "entirely so" to express partial agreement?

No, "entirely so" implies complete and unwavering agreement. For partial agreement, use phrases like "partly true" or "mostly correct".