categorically
Meaning: In an absolute, unconditional, and unqualified manner; without any doubt, exception, or reservation.
Categorically is most often paired with denial or rejection: 'categorically denied,' 'categorically rejected,' 'categorically refused.' The word signals that the denial is total — there is no partial admission, no room for nuance. It is a staple of political statements, press conferences, and legal defences. While it can modify positive statements ('categorically stated'), it is overwhelmingly associated with forceful negation. Overuse in political speech has given it a slightly combative flavour.
Examples
- The spokesperson categorically denied that any confidential data had been shared with third parties. 发言人断然否认有任何机密数据与第三方共享。El portavoz negó categóricamente que se hubiese compartido dato confidencial alguno con terceros.報道官は、機密データが第三者と共有された事実はないと断固として否定した。대변인은 기밀 데이터가 제3자와 공유된 적이 없다고 단호히 부인했다.
- The minister categorically rejected calls for his resignation, insisting that the inquiry would vindicate his actions. 部长断然拒绝了要求其辞职的呼声,坚称调查将证明其清白。El ministro rechazó categóricamente las peticiones de dimisión, insistiendo en que la investigación le daría la razón.大臣は辞任要求を断固として拒否し、調査が自らの正当性を証明するだろうと主張した。장관은 사임 요구를 단호히 거부하며, 조사가 자신의 행동의 정당성을 입증할 것이라고 주장했다.
- The company categorically stated that it had complied with all applicable environmental regulations. 公司明确声明已遵守所有适用的环境法规。La empresa declaró categóricamente que había cumplido con toda la normativa medioambiental aplicable.同社は、適用されるすべての環境規制を遵守していると断固として表明した。해당 기업은 적용 가능한 모든 환경 규정을 준수해 왔다고 단호히 표명했다.
Pronunciation
Usage Guide
Context: journalism, legal, professional
Tone: emphatic
Origin & History
From categorical (from Late Latin categoricus, from Greek kategorikos, accusatory, affirmative, from kategoria, accusation, assertion) + -ly. The sense of 'absolute, unconditional' developed in English by the 17th century.
Cultural Context
Era: Modern
Generation: All ages
Social background: Universal
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