deliberately
UK[dɪˈlɪbərətli]US[dɪˈlɪbərətli]
adv
in a careful and unhurried way
adv
done in a way that is planned or intended
Morpheme Breakdown
de
liberate
ly
de
thoroughly, completely
liberate
to weigh, to consider
ly
Etymology
the word 'deliberately' originates from the latin verb 'deliberare', meaning 'to weigh well, consider carefully'. this verb itself is composed of the intensive prefix 'de-' and 'librare', meaning 'to balance, to weigh', derived from 'libra', a scale or balance. the core concept is of carefully weighing options in one's mind. over time, the adjective 'deliberate' emerged, describing actions taken after such consideration, and the adverbial suffix '-ly' was added to form 'deliberately', signifying an action performed with conscious intent or careful thought.
Analysis
Structure: de + liberate + ly
de- (latin, prefix meaning 'thoroughly, completely'), liberate (from latin 'liberatus', past participle of 'liberare' meaning 'to weigh, to consider'), -ly (old english, suffix forming adverbs from adjectives).
Examples
she spoke slowly and deliberately to ensure everyone understood.
the damage to the property was done deliberately.
he deliberately avoided making eye contact during the difficult conversation.