C1adverbformallanguagerelationships
US/ɪmˈpɜːr.sən.əl.i/
UK/ɪmˈpɜː.sən.əl.i/
in a cold or formal way that shows no personal feeling or warmth
In context
The manager spoke impersonally, as if the staff were just numbers on a page.
The letter was written impersonally, and it did not even use my name.
Doctors sometimes explain bad news impersonally because they are tired and under pressure.
Words that go with impersonally
verb + adverb
- speak impersonallyHe spoke impersonally, without looking at any of us.
- write impersonallyReports are usually written impersonally.
- treat someone impersonallyPatients hate being treated impersonally by hospital staff.
adverb + adjective
- impersonally politeThe receptionist was impersonally polite but never smiled.
- impersonally efficientThe airline was impersonally efficient and very fast.
- impersonally formalHer email was impersonally formal for a message to a friend.