carrément

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squarely, solidly, frankly, directly, flatly
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/kaʁemɑ̃/
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A forceful way to show a square position, a direct decision, or complete intensity.
Practice using carrément in conversation until it feels natural

Examples

  • Ce film est carrément génial.
    This film is absolutely brilliant.
  • Nous avons carrément choisi de changer de méthode.
    We decisively chose to change methods.
  • La table est posée carrément contre le mur.
    The table is set squarely against the wall.
  • Tu veux venir avec nous ? Carrément !
    Do you want to come with us? Definitely!
  • Il s'est planté carrément devant la porte.
    He stood squarely in front of the door.

Similar words

absolument
vraiment
totalement
solidement
tout à fait
fermement
nettement
nettement
directement
complètement

Meanings

Squarely or solidly

adverb
physical
neutral
In a firm, square, or right-angled position, without leaning or turning aside.

Examples

  • Il s'est planté carrément devant la porte.
    He stood squarely in front of the door.
  • La table est posée carrément contre le mur.
    The table is set squarely against the wall.
  • Elle s'est assise carrément face à moi.
    She sat directly facing me.
  • Les poutres se croisent carrément.
    The beams cross at right angles.
  • Le gardien s'est campé carrément sur ses jambes.
    The guard planted himself firmly on his feet.

Similar words

d'aplomb
solidement
nettement
à angle droit

Frankly and decisively

adverb
communication
neutral
In a direct, frank, and decisive way that leaves no doubt about a choice or opinion.

Examples

  • Elle a carrément refusé notre proposition.
    She flatly refused our proposal.
  • Dis-moi carrément ce que tu en penses.
    Tell me frankly what you think.
  • Le directeur s'est prononcé carrément contre le projet.
    The director came out firmly against the project.
  • Il a répondu carrément, sans chercher d'excuse.
    He answered directly, without making excuses.
  • Nous avons carrément choisi de changer de méthode.
    We decisively chose to change methods.

Similar words

franchement
nettement
catégoriquement
directement
fermement
ouvertement

Completely or absolutely

adverb
conversation
informal
Adds strong familiar emphasis meaning completely or absolutely, and alone can give an enthusiastic “definitely.”

Examples

  • Ce film est carrément génial.
    This film is absolutely brilliant.
  • J'ai carrément oublié notre rendez-vous.
    I completely forgot our appointment.
  • Tu veux venir avec nous ? Carrément !
    Do you want to come with us? Definitely!
  • La route était carrément bloquée.
    The road was completely blocked.
  • Son idée est carrément impossible à réaliser.
    His idea is absolutely impossible to carry out.

Similar words

complètement
totalement
absolument
vraiment
tout à fait

Etymology

Derived from the adjective carré, “square,” with the adverbial ending -ment. The physical idea of firm, square placement later developed into directness and complete intensity.

FAQ

What does carrément mean?

Carrément can mean squarely, frankly, or, informally, completely and definitely.

How do you pronounce carrément?

Carrément is pronounced /kaʁemɑ̃/.

Is carrément informal?

The meaning completely or definitely is informal. The meanings squarely and frankly can be neutral.

Can carrément mean “definitely”?

Yes. As an enthusiastic reply, Carrément ! means Definitely! or Absolutely!

What is the difference between carrément and franchement?

Both can describe direct speech, but carrément often sounds more categorical, while franchement focuses more on honesty.

Where does carrément come from?

Carrément comes from carré, meaning “square,” plus the adverbial ending -ment.

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