Intimately

Intimately is an adverb derived from the adjective intimate. It has several related senses in English. In one sense, intimately means in a private, personal, or confidential manner or setting, as in discussions held intimately among a small group. In another sense, it indicates close knowledge, understanding, or connection, as in knowing a subject intimately or a culture intimately tied to its history. It can also describe physical or emotional closeness in relationships, for example a couple who are intimately involved in a project or a relationship characterized by deep closeness; in everyday usage this sense may carry sexual connotations depending on context.

Etymology and development: intimate comes from Latin intimus, meaning innermost or inner. The adverb intimately is formed from this adjective and has been in English since the early modern period. The core idea is proximity—either in space, attachment, or degree of knowledge.

Usage notes: Intimately often modifies verbs such as know, understand, involve, connect, or discuss, emphasizing depth of knowledge, proximity, or privacy. It is generally more formal than casual synonyms like closely or deeply, and it helps convey emphasis on private or deeply personal aspects. The phrase “in an intimate setting” is commonly used to indicate privacy or a small, confidential audience. While not inherently sexual, some contexts may evoke intimate relations, so tone and audience should guide usage.

See also: Intimacy, intimate, familiarity, confidentiality.