Confirmatively

Part of speech: adverb

Definitions

1. In a fashion that indicates approval or confirmation of a claim
2. In a manner that shows support or acceptance of a statement
3. Done in a way that affirms or endorses the truth of a point

Etymology: "Confirmatively" is an adverb built from "confirmative," which itself rests on the Latin verb "confirmare," meaning to strengthen or make firm. The English suffix "-ly" turns the adjective into an adverb describing the manner of an action, so something said confirmatively is said in a way that makes a claim firmer. The root carries the sense of making something stronger rather than simply agreeing. "Confirm" was once used in the sense of establishing or fortifying a thing, and the modern idea of verifying a fact grew out of that older meaning of solidifying it. The adverb therefore describes a way of speaking that adds weight to what has been said.

Synonyms: affirmatively, positively

Antonyms: negatively