successfully

UK: səkˈsɛsfəli | US: səkˈsɛsfəli

Definition

  1. adv. in a way that accomplishes a desired aim or result

  2. adv. with a favorable or prosperous outcome

Structure
success <achieve>ful <full of>ly <adverb suffix>
Etymology

The word "successfully" is built from three morphemes:

  1. "Success" derives from Latin successus (an advance, a good result), from succedere (to come after, prosper).
  2. "-ful" is an Old English suffix meaning "full of," turning nouns into adjectives (e.g., "joyful").
  3. "-ly" is an Old English adverbial suffix, converting adjectives into adverbs (e.g., "quickly").
    The progression reflects a logical shift: from the core idea of "achievement" (success) to "characterized by achievement" (successful) to "in a manner characterized by achievement" (successfully).
Examples

  1. She completed the project successfully within the deadline.

  2. The team worked together successfully to solve the problem.

  3. The rocket launched successfully despite initial technical issues.

  4. He negotiated the contract successfully, securing favorable terms.

  5. The medicine was tested successfully in clinical trials.