Versatilely
Part of speech: adverb
Pronunciation: /ˈvɝ.səˌtaɪl.(l)i/
Definitions
- In a manner that shows the ability to adapt or be used for many different functions or activities
- Characterized by flexibility and capability to change or respond to various tasks or conditions
- Done with skill in a variety of ways or for multiple purposes, demonstrating adaptability
Etymology: "Versatilely" is simply "versatile" with the adverbial ending "-ly" added, so it means "in a versatile way." The root "versatile" comes from Latin "versatilis," meaning "turning around" or "that can be turned," from the verb "versare," a frequentative of "vertere," "to turn." The original sense was physical, describing something that could turn or swivel, and the figurative sense of being adaptable across many uses developed from that notion of turning easily from one thing to another. The adverb is the less common form of the family, and it is formed in the regular way, the same way "quickly" or "boldly" are built from their adjectives. Because "versatile" is often used of people and their talents, the adverb usually appears in descriptions of how someone performs several roles or skills.
Synonyms: adaptably, flexibly, multifunctionally, resourcefully, variously
Antonyms: inflexibly, rigidly, uniformly, single-mindedly, narrowly