What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
outright
Example
He outright refused to help me with the project. [outright: adverb]
Example
Her outright honesty was refreshing. [outright: adjective]
complete
Example
I have complete faith in you. [complete: adjective]
Example
She completed the project on time. [completed: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Complete is more commonly used than outright in everyday language. Complete is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while outright is less common and has a narrower range of usage.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between outright and complete?
Both outright and complete are relatively formal words, but complete is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while outright is more commonly used in formal writing or speech.