purely
Meaning
in a way that is not mixed with anything else; only or entirely
used to emphasize that the only thing involved is the one you are mentioning
Structure
Usage
the decision was based purely on financial considerations.
the fabric is made purely from organic cotton.
i am saying this purely as a friend, not as your boss.
Etymology
the word 'purely' is a straightforward english formation from the adjective 'pure' and the ubiquitous adverbial suffix '-ly'. the root 'pure' entered english via old french 'pur' from latin 'purus', which carried the core senses of clean, clear, and unmixed. the latin term is of uncertain deeper origin, though it may be connected to a proto-indo-european root related to fire and purification. the suffix '-ly' has germanic origins, evolving from old english '-līce', which denoted manner or quality. thus, 'purely' literally means 'in a pure manner', a sense which has extended from physical cleanliness to abstract concepts of exclusivity and emphasis.
Analysis
- pure: from latin 'purus' meaning clean, clear, unmixed. functions as the core adjective root. - ly: from old english '-līce', an adverbial suffix. functions as a derivational suffix forming adverbs from adjectives.