reasonably

Reasonably is an adverb derived from the adjective reasonable. It commony signals that something is sensible, fair, or within acceptable limits. The term can describe degree (to a moderate extent, not excessive) or likelihood (reasonably certain or expected), and it often implies a prudent or ordinary-standard judgment.

In everyday use, reasonably appears before adjectives or participles to convey adequacy or plausibility. Examples include reasonably priced, reasonably safe, or reasonably well, as in “The product is reasonably priced” or “He recovered reasonably well.” It can also modify verbs or entire clauses: “We can reasonably assume the data are accurate,” or “They acted reasonably under the circumstances.” The phrase is versatile and frequently softens statements, indicating that conclusions are justified but not absolute.

Etymology and related forms: reasonably comes from the French-derived adjective reasonable, itself from Latin ratio (reason) via Old French raisonnable. The noun form is reason, and related terms include reasonableness and unreasonably (the latter as the opposite).

Usage notes: In legal or formal contexts, the standard of reasonableness often arises in phrases like reasonable person or reasonable doubt; reasonably, however, is used to describe how standards are met or how conclusions are drawn. In all uses, reasonably implies alignment with common sense, fairness, or customary expectations, without asserting certainty beyond what is warranted.