volstrekt

Volstrekt is a Dutch word that functions as an adverb meaning completely, utterly, or utterly so, and as an attributive adjective meaning absolute or utter when modifying a noun. As an intensifier, it strengthens adjectives, participles, or entire clauses, often in formal or careful prose.

In use, volstrekt appears in phrases such as volstrekt duidelijk (completely clear), volstrekt onwaar (utterly false), or volstrekte onafhankelijkheid (absolute independence). It can also appear with nouns to express a high degree, for example de volstrekte meerderheid (the absolute majority). The word is common in journalism, legal language, and formal argumentation, where precise emphasis is needed. In negation, it can combine with niet for emphasis, as in dat is volstrekt niet waar (that is not completely true).

Etymology and forms are anchored in the combination of vol, meaning full or total, with an intensifying emphasis historically carried by the suffix and form used in Middle Dutch and later Dutch. Today, volstrekt is typically used as an invariant adverb, while its adjective form volstrekte is used before nouns in attributive positions.

Synonyms and related terms include volledig (fully), totaal (total), and absoluut (absolute). Volstrekt tends to convey stronger emphasis than these alternatives and is more common in formal writing than in casual speech. Its tone is precise and sometimes austere, suitable for judgments, policy statements, or analytic discussions where the speaker intends to leave little room for ambiguity.