schematically
UK[skiːˈmætɪkli]US[skiːˈmætɪkli]
adv
In a way that uses or is in the form of a diagram, plan, or outline, showing the main features or relationships but not the details.
Morpheme Breakdown
schematic
ally
schematic
relating to a diagram
ally
adverb suffix
Etymology
The adverb 'schematically' is built upon the adjective 'schematic,' which entered English in the early 18th century from the modern Latin schematicus. This, in turn, derives from the Greek schēmatikos, an adjective form of schēma, meaning "form, figure, or plan." The Greek schēma originates from the verb echein, "to have or hold," suggesting the concept of a held shape or configuration. The adverbial suffix '-ally' is a common English formative, ultimately from Latin, used to denote manner. Thus, the word's evolution captures the idea of presenting information in the manner of a held form or outline, prioritizing essential structure over intricate detail.
Analysis
Structure: schematic (relating to a diagram) + ally (adverb suffix)
schematic: From Latin schematicus, from Greek schēmatikos, from schēma (form, figure, plan). In this word, it functions as the adjectival root meaning "of or relating to a diagrammatic outline."
ally: A suffix forming adverbs from adjectives, from Latin -ālis (adjectival suffix) via Old French -el, -al. In this word, it functions to convert the adjective 'schematic' into an adverb.
Examples
The process is shown schematically in Figure 3.
He explained the concept schematically, using simple boxes and arrows.
The report describes the system's architecture schematically before delving into the technical specifications.