Habitually

Habitually is an adverb that describes an action performed as part of a habit or as part of a regular routine. It conveys that the behavior occurs repeatedly or consistently over time and is characteristic of the subject rather than a single instance.

Origin and usage notes: habit + -ual + -ly; from Latin habitualis through Old French habituel to English. The word is most often used in formal or descriptive prose to discuss how someone tends to behave over time. It can carry a neutral or negative nuance depending on context.

Usage specifics: Habitually describes actions that are characteristic because they are habitual. It can modify verbs directly, as in “She habitually checks the door lock,” or appear after a linking verb, as in “She is habitually late.” Its tone can range from matter-of-fact to critical, depending on the surrounding language and the described behavior.

Examples: She habitually reviews her work before submission. The coach habitually arrives early for practice. A manager who is habitually respectful is noted for consistent conduct.

Relations and synonyms: Related forms include habitual (adjective) and habit (noun). Similar adverbs include regularly, routinely, and consistently; antonyms include rarely, infrequently, and occasionally. Habitually emphasizes the persistence of behavior as a habit rather than a one-time or transient action.