Evidently or Evidentally – Which is Correct?
I am frequently asked about the correct usage of certain words. One such query I often encounter is the difference between “evidently” and “evidentally”. To put an end to the confusion and shed some light on this matter, let’s learn the two words and see which one is correct.
The correct term to use is “evidently.” This adverb is derived from the adjective “evident” and is used to denote something that is clearly or obviously apparent. “Evidently” is a widely accepted and established English word, which has been used by renowned authors and scholars for centuries. Its usage can be traced back to the late 17th century, making it a time-tested component of the English language.
To better understand the correct usage of “evidently,” let’s consider some examples:
1. The teacher’s frustration was evidently visible in her facial expressions.
– In this sentence, “evidently” highlights the clear and unmistakable signs of the teacher’s frustration.
2. The cat had evidently been playing in the garden, as its paws were covered in dirt.
– Here, “evidently” emphasizes the evident dirt on the cat’s paws, indicating its recent whereabouts.
3. The crowd erupted into applause as the talented young musician played the piano effortlessly. Evidently, her hard work had paid off.
– In this example, “evidently” is used to showcase the clear connection between the musician’s hard work and the subsequent positive outcome.
Now, let’s explore the term “evidentally.” While this spelling may seem plausible, it is actually incorrect and not recognized as a legitimate word in the English language. If you were to use “evidentally” in your writing or speech, you would likely be met with confusion or correction.
To further illustrate this point, let’s consider a few hypothetical examples where people mistakenly use “evidentally”:
1. The group of friends was having a great time evidentally.
– Here, the incorrect usage of “evidentally” disrupts the flow of the sentence and is grammatically incorrect. The correct term to use would be “evidently”.
2. Evidentally, I left my keys in the car.
– This sentence, although conveying the intended meaning informally, is linguistically incorrect. The correct term to use is “evidently”.
So, to clarify, “evidently” is the correct adverb to use when you want to express something that is clearly visible or obvious. Remember, language is a tool for effective communication, and using the correct words will help you communicate your ideas more clearly and with fewer misunderstandings.
In conclusion, it is essential to use “evidently” instead of “evidentally” as the former is the accurate and accepted adverb in the English language. By using “evidently” correctly, you can confidently express the clarity or obviousness of a situation, idea, or observation. So, next time you come across this dilemma, remember to go with “evidently” and avoid the non-existent word of “evidentally.”