Downright - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Downright means completely or utterly, often used to emphasize something negative or extreme. For example, That was downright rude means the behavior was entirely unacceptable.
Definition:
Complete, absolute, or utter in degree; straightforward and direct in manner.
Synonyms:
absolute, utter, total, sheer, unmitigated
Part of Speech:
adjective, adverb
Antonyms:
partial, uncertain
Common Collocations:
downright rude, downright dangerous, downright impossible, downright dishonest, downright hilarious
Derivatives:
downrightness (noun), downrightly (adverb)
Usage Tips:
Use "downright" to emphasize extreme qualities or behaviors; often precedes negative or strong adjectives for emphasis.
Common Phrases:
downright liar, downright shame, downright nonsense
Etymology:
Originates from Middle English "dounriht," meaning straight down or directly; combines "down" + "right."
Examples:
- 1. She was downright furious when she heard the news.
- 2. His behavior was downright unacceptable at the meeting.
- 3. The weather turned downright freezing overnight.
- 4. That movie was downright terrifying—I couldn’t sleep!