Synonyms

totally

American

[toht-l-ee] / ˈtoʊt l i /

adverb

wholly; entirely; completely.

The two sisters have totally different personalities.
Informal. (used as an intensifier).

I totally cried when the movie ended. That was totally not what I meant.

interjection

Informal. definitely; absolutely (used to express complete agreement or strong affirmation).

Yes, totally, he should apologize to you!

Etymology

Origin of totally

First recorded in 1500–10; total + -ly

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The situation today is totally different from the ones faced in the past.

From MarketWatch • May 28, 2026

“They were set up by a mutual friend, and are totally in love,” a source told People last July.

From Los Angeles Times • May 27, 2026

But Aidar came to her love for capybaras in a totally analog way.

From Slate • May 27, 2026

Rutherford said he "totally understands" the desire "to protect people" but added his business had never had an issue in four years of operating.

From BBC • May 25, 2026

I’m not totally oblivious, Owen thought as they walked.

From "Two Degrees" by Alan Gratz

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023