fictionally
UK[ˈfɪk.ʃən.əl.i]US[ˈfɪk.ʃən.əl.i]
adv
In a manner relating to or characteristic of fiction; in an invented or imaginary way.
Morpheme Breakdown
fiction
al
ly
fiction
invented narrative
al
adjective suffix
ly
adverb suffix
Etymology
The adverb 'fictionally' is built upon the noun 'fiction,' which traces its lineage to the Latin verb fingere, meaning "to shape, form, or invent." From this verb came the noun fictio, denoting the act of fashioning or inventing. In English, 'fiction' evolved to specifically mean a literary genre of invented narratives. The suffix -al was appended to form the adjective 'fictional,' meaning "pertaining to fiction." Finally, the Old English adverbial suffix -ly was added, creating 'fictionally' to describe an action performed in the manner of something invented or imaginary. Thus, the word encapsulates a journey from the physical act of shaping to the abstract concept of literary invention, and finally to the descriptive mode of that invention.
Analysis
Structure: fiction (invented narrative) + al (adjective suffix) + ly (adverb suffix)
- fiction: From Latin fictiōnem (the action of fashioning or inventing). The functional role is the core root, providing the base meaning of invention or fabrication.
- al: A suffix of Latin origin (-ālis) used to form adjectives meaning "of or pertaining to."
- ly: A suffix of Old English origin (-līce) used to form adverbs from adjectives, meaning "in a manner of."
Examples
The character, though based on a real historical figure, was portrayed fictionally in the film.
She writes fictionally, but her stories often contain profound truths about human nature.
The events in the novel are set fictionally in a dystopian future.