What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
thoroughly
Example
I need to thoroughly clean the kitchen before the guests arrive. [thoroughly: adverb]
Example
The team thoroughly researched the market before launching the new product. [thoroughly: adverb]
entirely
Example
I entirely agree with your assessment of the situation. [entirely: adverb]
Example
The project was entirely completed on time and within budget. [entirely: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Entirely is more commonly used than thoroughly in everyday language. Entirely is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while thoroughly is less common and is typically associated with academic or professional language.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between thoroughly and entirely?
While thoroughly is typically associated with a formal and academic tone, entirely is more versatile and can be employed in both formal and informal contexts.