What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
knowingly
Example
He knowingly broke the law by driving without a license. [knowingly: adverb]
Example
She knowingly ate the food that had expired. [knowingly: adverb]
deliberately
Example
He deliberately ignored her calls because he was angry. [deliberately: adverb]
Example
She deliberately chose the blue dress over the red one. [deliberately: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Deliberately is more commonly used than knowingly in everyday language. Deliberately is versatile and can be used in various contexts, while knowingly is less common and typically used in legal or ethical contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between knowingly and deliberately?
Both knowingly and deliberately are formal words that are typically used in serious or professional contexts, such as legal or ethical discussions.