contextually
UK[kənˈtɛkstʃuəli]US[kənˈtɛkstʃuəli]
adv
In a way that relates to or depends on the circumstances that form the setting for an event, statement, or idea.
Morpheme Breakdown
context
ual
ly
context
circumstance
ual
adjective suffix
ly
adverb suffix
Etymology
The word 'contextually' is built upon the Latin foundation contexere, meaning "to weave together," from con- (together) and texere (to weave). This literal sense of interwoven fabric evolved metaphorically into contextus, referring to the interconnected circumstances surrounding something. The addition of the adjectival suffix -ual created 'contextual,' meaning pertaining to this interconnected setting. Finally, the Old English adverbial suffix -ly was appended, forming 'contextually' to describe an action performed in a manner that considers or relates to this woven framework of surrounding conditions.
Analysis
Structure: context (circumstance) + ual (adjective suffix) + ly (adverb suffix)
- context: From Latin contextus (a joining together, connection), from contexere (to weave together). Functions as the core noun root.
- ual: A suffix of Latin origin (-alis), forming adjectives meaning "of or pertaining to."
- ly: A suffix of Old English origin (-lice), forming adverbs from adjectives.
Examples
The meaning of a word can change contextually.
The data must be interpreted contextually, not in isolation.
She argued that the historical figure's actions should be judged contextually.