Meaning & use
anatomically
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Meaning
adverb
In a way that relates to the structure of a living body or its parts.
Grammar: Often used before adjectives like correct or accurate, or after verbs like be or describe.
Patterns
- anatomically correct
- anatomically accurate
- anatomically impossible
The model is anatomically correct, showing all the major organs.
The drawing was anatomically accurate, based on real dissections.
Such a movement is anatomically impossible for humans.
Common combinations
- anatomically correct
- The doll is anatomically correct.
- anatomically modern
- Anatomically modern humans appeared in Africa.
- anatomically distinct
- The two species are anatomically distinct.
Synonyms and how they differ
- structurally
- Broader term; can refer to any structure, not just the body.
- physiologically
- Relates to how the body functions, not just its structure.
Word family
- anatomy noun
- The study of the structure of the body, or the structure itself.
- anatomical adjective
- Relating to anatomy.
- anatomist noun
- A person who studies anatomy.
Commonly confused: anatomically or anatomically vs. anatomical?
anatomically vs anatomically vs. anatomical
Anatomically is an adverb (modifies verbs or adjectives), while anatomical is an adjective (modifies nouns).
Practice
Choose the correct word: The drawing was ___ accurate.
Choose one answer.
The adverb 'anatomically' modifies the adjective 'accurate'. 'Anatomical' is an adjective and would modify a noun, not another adjective.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “anatomically”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.