universally

American  

[yoo-nuh-vur-suh-lee] / ˌju nəˈvɜr sə li /

adverb

1. in a universal manner; in every instance or place; without exception.

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universally British  

/ ˌjuːnɪˈvɜːsəlɪ /

adverb

1. everywhere or in every case; without exception

   this principle applies universally

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Etymology

Origin of universally

Middle English word dating back to 1350–1400; see origin at universal, -ly

Explanation

Use the adverb universally to emphasize that something is done — or felt, or believed — in every single case. If your new haircut is universally loved, it means that everyone, everywhere — with no exceptions — is a fan of your super short bangs. You might also describe getting a filling at the dentist as universally disliked, or a brilliant sunny day as universally cheering after a week of rain. The root is Latin, the word universalis, "of or belonging to all," which in turn comes from universus, "whole or entire." When a feeling or belief belongs to everyone, everywhere, it is held universally.

Example Sentences

Here is what to know about the Manhattan fixture locals universally refer to as "MSG":

From Barron's • Jul. 1, 2026

You don't need to understand the lyrics - or to have grown up with the more native sounds - to be swept up in his universally danceable rhythms, cinematic samples and infectious hooks.

From BBC • Jun. 28, 2026

There isn’t a universally accepted definition on what makes a doublet.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 26, 2026

For over a century, Disney has demonstrated a capability to generate compelling animated characters that undertake universally relatable human journeys—a timeless formula.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 19, 2026

Thomas Hobbes, although he was not an atomist, had developed a materialist, Epicurean philosophy which was universally understood to be hostile to religion.

From "The Invention of Science" by David Wootton

Related Words

• comprehensively
• customarily
• totally