congenially

Congenially is an adverb that denotes acting in a friendly, sociable, or agreeable manner; it can also imply suitability or compatibility with circumstances or others.

Etymology: The word is derived from the adjective congenial, from Latin congenialis meaning of the same birth or kind, formed from con- “together” and genialis “of birth, kind.” The adverbial suffix -ly was added in English. The form congenially has appeared since the 17th century and remains relatively formal or literary in tone.

Usage: Congenially describes how an action is performed or how a reception occurs. It is more common in written or formal prose than in everyday speech. Examples include: “The host greeted the guests congenially,” and “The team continued congenially toward a shared objective.” When describing environments or settings, speakers more often use congenial (as an adjective) rather than the adverb, though in theory one could say something like “the town offered congenially mild weather,” the phrasing is uncommon and may sound stilted.

Related terms: The related adjective congenial describes a person or environment that is pleasant or suitable; congeniality is the corresponding noun. The adverb congenially is characteristic of formal or literary contexts.

See also: Congenial, congeniality, congenially used in contrast to other adverbs describing manner of conduct.