Logically

Part of speech: adverb

Pronunciation: /ˈlɑd͡ʒɪˌkli/

Definitions

1. In a way that follows clear reasoning and makes rational sense
2. In a manner consistent with sound reasoning and clear, systematic thought
3. Following principles of coherent and valid reasoning without contradiction

Etymology: "Logically" is a plain formation: the adjective "logical" plus the adverbial suffix "-ly". The adjective comes from "logic," which reaches English through Latin "logica" and Greek "logikē," itself built on "logos," meaning word, reason or discourse. The "-ly" ending has a long pedigree of its own. It descends from a Proto-Germanic suffix meaning something like "body" or "form," which in Old English appeared as "-līce," used to turn adjectives into adverbs describing the manner in which something is done. Over the centuries that ending became the ordinary way English builds adverbs, and "logically" follows the pattern exactly. The word therefore carries two layers of history at once: a Greek idea of reasoned speech, wrapped in an ancient Germanic grammatical device that English has used for more than a thousand years.

Synonyms: reasonably, rationally, coherently, analytically

Antonyms: illogically, irrationally, unreasonably