physically

[fiz-ik-lee]

adverb

1. relating to the body or its appearance.

   He is not physically attractive.

2. according to what exists in the physical world as perceived by the senses.

   It's not physically possible because of the laws of gravity.

3. in a way that involves rough body contact or strenuous physical activity: a physically demanding sport.

   a physically abusive spouse;

   a physically demanding sport.

Word History and Origins

Origin of physically¹

First recorded in 1580–90; physical ( def. ) + -ly ( def. )

Example Sentences

The findings emphasize the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle through actions such as keeping a stable body weight, avoiding smoking, staying physically active, improving sleep, and preventing or managing chronic illnesses.

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Except for one night last summer, when he physically could not.

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“You had to actually look at the tangible catalog that came in the mail to see what was for sale or physically drive to the store. These additional steps kept the consumer at bay.”

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Johnson and Sothea envisaged Sovann Komar as “a safe, nurturing home where orphaned and abandoned children can develop—physically, intellectually and spiritually—to their fullest potential,” according to the project’s website.

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Yet if Wall Street was going to be America’s financial marketplace, it needed a faster way than the horse to physically exchange money and certificates.

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Related Words

• palpably www.thesaurus.com
• substantially