Guide 218 / 221 4 alternatives 2-minute read
Better ways to say “Completely and utterly”
One adverb does the job.
i · Why avoid itTwo lines, no filler
Doublet intensifier. The two adverbs are near-synonyms; using both signals strain.
ii · Before & afterDrop-in demo
Before
The plan was completely and utterly wrong.
After
The plan was completely wrong.
iii · The alternatives4 ways out
- 01Completely neutral
best default
The plan was completely wrong.
- 02Utterly neutral
sharper
The plan was utterly wrong.
- 03Totally informal
casual
The plan was totally wrong.
- 04Wholly formal
legal/formal
The plan was wholly wrong.
iv · Brew tipKeep this one
Pick one intensifier, not two.