Definition

In a way that relates to or resembles a saying that expresses a general truth or piece of advice.

Example

She was proverbially late, always arriving after everyone else had started.

Conversation

You know, they say that patience is a virtue, proverbially speaking.

That's true! I've always found it hard to wait for things.

Yeah, but proverbially, good things come to those who wait.

Exactly! It's a lesson I keep trying to remember.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Proverbially → It is formed from "proverb" (from Latin *proverbium*, meaning a saying or a maxim) and "-ially" (a suffix meaning in a manner relating to). The word "proverbially" means in a manner that relates to or is characteristic of a proverb.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'saying' ('proverb') that is expressed 'in a manner' ('-ially') — that's how you remember that 'proverbially' means in the way of a saying.

Visually Confused Words