Completely vs. Thoroughly — What's the Difference?
By Fiza Rafique & Urooj Arif — Updated on April 27, 2024
"Completely" implies total completion or absolute state, whereas "thoroughly" emphasizes exhaustive detailing or depth in processes.
Difference Between Completely and Thoroughly
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
"Completely" often refers to an absolute state where something is fully done with no part left out, while "thoroughly" suggests a detailed and exhaustive approach, ensuring every aspect is considered.
In usage, "completely" can describe an action that has been brought to an end, such as finishing a task completely, whereas "thoroughly" often relates to the manner in which the action is performed, focusing on the depth and completeness of the execution.
When discussing results, something done "completely" means it leaves no remainder, such as a completely emptied bottle, on the other hand, something done "thoroughly" might refer to the meticulous cleaning of that bottle.
"Completely" is ideal for expressing totality or entirety, such as in "completely satisfied", whereas "thoroughly" is more appropriate for indicating careful and detailed scrutiny, as in "thoroughly examined".
In emotional contexts, one might feel "completely happy", indicating a full state of happiness, whereas feeling "thoroughly miserable" conveys not just misery, but a deep, pervasive sense of it.
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Comparison Chart
Definition
Total, absolute finish
Detailed, exhaustive
Context of Use
Completion status
Process depth
Typical Phrases
Completely finished
Thoroughly checked
Emotional Connotation
Completely overwhelmed
Thoroughly enjoy
Outcome Orientation
End result focused
Method focused
Compare with Definitions
Completely
To the fullest extent.
He agreed completely.
Thoroughly
Deeply, profoundly.
They were thoroughly disappointed with the outcome.
Completely
Utterly, thoroughly (in terms of completion).
The job was completed completely.
Thoroughly
Meticulously, carefully.
He thoroughly cleaned the kitchen.
Completely
Totally, absolutely.
The statement was completely true.
Thoroughly
Exhaustively, extensively.
The topic was thoroughly researched.
Completely
Fully, with nothing left out.
The room was completely empty.
Thoroughly
Completely, penetratingly.
The film was thoroughly enjoyable.
Completely
Entirely, wholly.
She was completely unaware of the situation.
Thoroughly
In a thorough manner, with great attention to detail.
The proposal was thoroughly reviewed.
Completely
Having all necessary or normal parts, components, or steps; entire
A complete medical history.
A complete set of dishes.
Thoroughly
Exhaustively complete
A thorough search.
Completely
(Botany) Having all principal parts, namely, the sepals, petals, stamens, and pistil or pistils. Used of a flower.
Thoroughly
Painstakingly accurate or careful
Thorough research.
Completely
Having come to an end; concluded
The renovation of the kitchen is complete.
Thoroughly
Absolute; utter
A thorough pleasure.
Completely
Absolute; thorough
Complete control.
A complete mystery.
Thoroughly
Variant of through.
Completely
Accomplished; consummate
A complete musician.
Thoroughly
In a thorough or complete manner.
He went out in the rain and came back thoroughly drenched.
The editor looked thoroughly for any mistakes in the paper.
Completely
(Football) Caught in bounds by a receiver
A complete pass.
Thoroughly
In a thorough manner; fully; entirely; completely.
Completely
To bring to a finish or an end
She has completed her studies.
Thoroughly
In a complete and thorough manner (`good' is sometimes used informally for `thoroughly');
He was soundly defeated
We beat him good
Completely
To make whole, with all necessary elements or parts
A second child would complete their family. Fill in the blanks to complete the form.
Thoroughly
In an exhaustive manner;
We searched the files thoroughly
Completely
(Football) To throw (a forward pass) that is caught in bounds by a receiver.
Completely
(manner) In a complete manner
Please completely fill in the box for your answer, using a number 2 pencil.
Completely
(degree) To the fullest extent or degree; totally.
He is completely mad.
Completely
In a complete manner; fully.
Completely
To a complete degree or to the full or entire extent (`whole' is often used informally for `wholly');
He was wholly convinced
Entirely satisfied with the meal
It was completely different from what we expected
Was completely at fault
A totally new situation
The directions were all wrong
It was not altogether her fault
An altogether new approach
A whole new idea
Completely
So as to be complete; with everything necessary;
He had filled out the form completely
The apartment was completely furnished
Common Curiosities
How does thoroughly differ from completely in terms of process?
Thoroughly involves detailed attention to every aspect of a process, whereas completely refers to the absolute state of being finished.
What does it mean to do something completely?
It means to do it to the fullest extent, leaving no part unfinished.
What is an example of using "completely" in a sentence?
"He had completely forgotten about the meeting."
What is an example of using "thoroughly" in a sentence?
"She thoroughly checked the report for errors."
Does "completely" imply a temporary or permanent state?
It usually implies a more definitive, often permanent state.
Is "thoroughly" more about process or outcome?
It's more about the process, focusing on detailed execution.
Can "completely" and "thoroughly" be used interchangeably?
While sometimes they can, typically they serve different purposes; "completely" is about the state of completion, and "thoroughly" about the depth of action.
What kind of actions are typically described as "completely" done?
Actions that have reached an absolute endpoint, such as a task fully completed.
How does the emotional connotation differ between "completely" and "thoroughly"?
"Completely" often relates to the extent of an emotion, while "thoroughly" can describe the depth or intensity of experiences.
What does "completely finished" indicate?
It indicates that something has been concluded with no outstanding elements.
Can "thoroughly" imply a level of expertise?
Yes, it often implies a deep level of expertise or careful examination.
What kind of actions are typically described as "thoroughly" done?
Actions carried out with careful attention to detail, like a thorough investigation.
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Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
