“Thoroughly” is an adverb that means in a complete and detailed way. Here are some synonyms and an analysis of each:
1. Completely
- Analysis: “Completely” means fully or to the fullest extent. For example, “She completely understood the instructions.” It emphasizes the idea of totality, without any part left out. In comparison to “thoroughly,” “completely” is more about the overall state of something being full or entire. While “thoroughly” often implies a detailed examination or a comprehensive approach, “completely” can simply mean that something is finished or fulfilled in all respects.
2. Fully
- Analysis: “Fully” also means to the greatest degree or in a complete manner. For example, “He was fully aware of the consequences.” It is very similar to “completely” in that it emphasizes a state of fullness. However, “fully” can sometimes have a sense of something reaching its maximum capacity or potential. When it comes to doing a task, for example, “thoroughly” might focus on the detailed steps involved, while “fully” might emphasize the extent to which a task is carried out to its fullest intention or expectation.
3. Exhaustively
- Analysis: “Exhaustively” means in a way that is very thorough and comprehensive, leaving no stone unturned. For example, “The researchers exhaustively studied the effects of the new drug.” It implies a more intense and detailed exploration than “thoroughly.” “Exhaustively” gives the impression that every possible aspect has been considered and investigated. It often suggests a painstaking and meticulous process, which is a stronger version of the carefulness implied by “thoroughly.”
4. Intensively
- Analysis: “Intensively” means with great concentration, in a focused and detailed way. For example, “They worked intensively on the project to meet the deadline.” It emphasizes the depth and focus of the effort. While “thoroughly” can refer to the comprehensiveness of a task, “intensively” is more about the intensity of the work or study. It implies a high level of attention and energy being put into a particular activity, and it can be used when the emphasis is on the concentrated nature of the process.
5. Meticulously
- Analysis: “Meticulously” means with extreme care and attention to detail. For example, “The artist meticulously painted every leaf on the tree.” It is similar to “thoroughly” in the focus on detail, but “meticulously” has a stronger connotation of precision and carefulness. A person who does something meticulously is often very particular about every small aspect. In contrast, “thoroughly” can also imply a broader coverage or a more general sense of completeness, while “meticulously” zooms in on the precision of the details.