categorically.

1. In an explicit, absolute way that does not allow the stated exception or doubt.

2. By placing things in defined classes rather than along a continuous scale.

Use it for

Words that belong together

• categorically deny
• categorically reject

On the page

The spokesperson categorically denied authorizing the release.

The reviewer rejected the interpretation categorically rather than identifying conditions under which it might hold.

Usage notes

Primary category: academic / formal. Forms: Invariable adverb; no plural or tense forms. Comparison is used only where a particular degree naturally permits it. Legacy lexical fields mirror sense 1 only. Use numbered sense fields for all meanings. Established modern English lexical item. No separate regional spelling or grammatical inflection entry. Writing functions: inference, qualification, analysis, methodology. Disciplines: academic writing, reasoning, research. Commonness: moderately common.