B2adverbemotions
US/ˈʌt.ər.li/
UK/ˈʌt.ə.li/
completely; used to make a strong word even stronger
In context
The film was utterly boring, and half the audience left early.
She was utterly exhausted after the long flight.
His excuse sounded utterly ridiculous to everyone in the room.
Words that go with utterly
adverb + adjective
- utterly ridiculousThe idea is utterly ridiculous.
- utterly impossibleIt is utterly impossible to finish by noon.
- utterly exhaustedWe were utterly exhausted by evening.
- utterly differentThe two cities are utterly different.
- utterly destroyedThe village was utterly destroyed by the flood.
adverb + verb
- utterly failThe plan will utterly fail without more money.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
It is utterly good.Correct: It is absolutely wonderful.