sumamente
Lemma Details
Translation: extremely; highly; exceedingly; very; utterly
Part of Speech: adverb
Etymology: Derived from the Spanish word 'suma' (sum, total) plus the adverbial suffix '-mente'. The root 'suma' comes from Latin 'summa' meaning 'highest, topmost, total'. The '-mente' suffix (equivalent to English '-ly') forms adverbs from adjectives. The etymology reflects the idea of reaching the highest point or total degree of something, which explains its intensifying function.
Commonality: 80%
Guessability: 50%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
El examen fue sumamente difícil.
The exam was extremely difficult.
Estoy sumamente agradecido por tu ayuda.
I am extremely grateful for your help.
Es sumamente importante que llegues a tiempo.
It is extremely important that you arrive on time.
La situación es sumamente delicada.
The situation is highly delicate.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'sum' as in 'summit' (the highest point) to remember it means 'extremely' or 'to the highest degree'
- Remember 'suma' (sum) + 'mente' (mind/manner) = 'in a total manner' or 'to the highest degree'
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
Widely used in both formal and informal contexts in Spanish-speaking countries. It's a common intensifier in academic, professional, and everyday speech.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'sumamente' means 'extremely' or 'highly', 'solamente' means 'only' or 'solely'. They both end with '-mente' but have completely different meanings and uses.
Notes: Both are common adverbs ending in '-mente', but they modify sentences in completely different ways - 'sumamente' intensifies while 'solamente' restricts.
Mnemonic: Remember: 'suma' relates to 'sum' or 'total' (maximum degree), while 'sola' relates to 'solo' (alone/only).
Explanation: 'Sumamente' intensifies (extremely, highly), while 'simplemente' means 'simply' or 'just'.
Confused word:
Simplemente no lo entiendo.
I simply don't understand it.
Notes: Both adverbs are commonly used but serve different functions in communication.
Mnemonic: 'Suma' suggests the highest point, while 'simple' suggests basic or straightforward.