expresamente

Expresamente is an adverb in Spanish that means expressly, explicitly, or deliberately. It is used to emphasize that something is stated or done with clear intent or formal clarity. The term can modify verbs, adjectives, or entire clauses and appears in both formal and everyday language, including legal, administrative, and journalistic contexts.

Etymology and form: Expresamente derives from the adjective expres(o) meaning express, combined with the adverbial suffix -mente, yielding a meaning akin to “in an express way.” The root word expreso comes from Latin expressus, based on exprimere “to press out.”

Usage and examples: Expresamente is commonly employed to indicate explicit scope, prohibition, authorization, or intention. Examples include: “El uso está expresamente prohibido,” meaning the prohibition is explicit; “Lo hizo expresamente para ti,” indicating deliberate action directed at someone; and “Expresamente autorizado por la ley,” highlighting formal authorization. In narrative or argumentative writing, it can clarify that a statement is intended in a direct, unambiguous manner.

Nuances and synonyms: Typical synonyms include específicamente, explícitamente, claramente, and de manera expresa. Antonyms include implícitamente or de forma implícita, which convey omission or indirectness. While related to the general idea of clarity, expresamente conveys a stronger sense of intentional precision or formal emphasis.

See also: Expresar, expresión, expreso, expresión escrita, explicitar. Expresamente is mainly an adverb of manner; related terms reflect the broader family of expressing and clarifying ideas in Spanish.