flatly

[flat-lee]

adverb

1. absolutely and without qualification.

   Our offer was flatly rejected.

2. without vitality or animation.

   He spoke flatly about the death of his wife.

3. in a level, even, or smooth manner.

   Apply the tape flatly to the pipe.

Word History and Origins

Origin of flatly¹

First recorded in 1560–70; flat ¹ ( def. ) + -ly ( def. )

Example Sentences

Yet, bond markets and the dollar flatly disagree.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

“It is flatly untrue to suggest that these changes are arbitrary or politically motivated,” the spokesperson told Reuters.

Read more on Salon

As he usually does, the vice president traps the press into playing his game by saying something flatly, outrageously untrue.

Read more on Salon

Han Hak-ja flatly rejected claims that she directed the bribery when confronted by reporters as she emerged from nine hours of questioning at the prosecutor's office.

Read more on BBC

Bargatze does not sing or dance, and during a recent appearance on “The Late Show With Stephen Colbert,” flatly resisted the idea that he would attempt to do so for purposes of the Emmy broadcast.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• absolutely 
• categorically 
• emphatically 
• firmly 
• unequivocally