involuntarily
UK[ɪnˈvɒləntrəli]US[ɪnˈvɑːlənterəli]
adv
in a way that is not done by choice or willingly
adv
in a way that is not consciously controlled by the mind
Morpheme Breakdown
in
volunt
arily
in
not
volunt
will
arily
adverb suffix
Etymology
the word "involuntarily" is built upon the core latin root voluntas, meaning "will" or "free choice." the prefix in- negates this core, creating the sense of "against one's will." this concept was adopted into english via the adjective "involuntary." the modern adverb "involuntarily" is formed by adding the adverbial suffix "-ly" to this adjective, finalizing its grammatical function. thus, the word's literal construction directly conveys its meaning: an action performed "in a manner not of one's own will."
Analysis
Structure: in (not) + volunt (will) + arily (adverb suffix)
- in: a latin prefix meaning "not".
- volunt: from latin voluntas meaning "will, choice, wish".
- arily: a complex english adverbial suffix combining "-ar" (adjective-forming) and "-ly" (adverb-forming).
Examples
she shuddered involuntarily at the sudden, loud noise.
his leg jerked involuntarily during the reflex test.
the confession was made involuntarily under extreme duress.