phenomenally

IPA/fəˈnɒmɪnəli/
KK[fənˈɑmənəli]IPA/fəˈnɑːmɪnəli/

phenomenally — adverb

1. to a degree that is much higher, better, or stronger than people would normally

1.adverbC1
Definition

to a degree that is much higher, better, or stronger than people would normally expect.

Example

The small cafe grew phenomenally fast after Nora's video went online.

phenomenally + fast for surprising growth

Leo's tomatoes did phenomenally well during the hottest weeks of July.

common phrase: do phenomenally well

Common collocations
  • phenomenally well
  • phenomenally fast
  • phenomenally high
  • phenomenally successful
Synonyms
  • extremely

    the most neutral high-degree adverb, without the same sense of surprise

  • exceptionally

    often sounds more formal and measured

  • remarkably

    highlights that something stands out or is noticeable

  • amazingly

    more emotional and common in conversation

Antonyms

Grammar Patterns

phenomenally + adjective

phenomenally + adverb

verb + phenomenally

verb + phenomenally well

Usage Note

Often placed before adjectives, adverbs, and performance verbs to show a result far above the usual level. Compared with plain 'very' or 'extremely', it more often suggests that the speaker finds the degree impressive or unexpected.

Common Mistakes

The shop was phenomenally very busy.
The shop was phenomenally busy.
'phenomenally' already gives very strong emphasis, so adding 'very' is usually unnecessary.

Word family

Synonym discussion

Sense: adverb/1

'Phenomenally' is stronger and more vivid than 'extremely'. It usually suggests not only a high degree but also that the result feels impressive or unexpected. 'Exceptionally' also means above the usual level, but it sounds cooler and more formal, especially in reviews or reports. 'Remarkably' points to something noticeable and can be used even when the degree is not extreme. 'Amazingly' is more emotional and conversational, and it often shows the speaker's personal reaction. In sports, business, or praise, 'phenomenally' works well with growth, skill, speed, and success: 'The team played phenomenally well.' For plain degree without that extra sense of surprise, 'extremely' is often the better choice.

phenomenally ↗extremely ↗exceptionally ↗remarkably ↗amazingly ↗

Common collocations

Phrases

  • phenomenally well
  • phenomenally fast
  • phenomenally high
  • phenomenally successful

Etymology

GreekLatinEnglish

Phenomenally is formed from the adjective 'phenomenal' and the adverb ending '-ly'. 'Phenomenal' grew out of 'phenomenon', a word that came into English through Latin from Greek and originally referred to something that appears or can be observed. Once 'phenomenal' developed the meaning 'striking' or 'extraordinary', 'phenomenally' came to mean 'to an extraordinary degree'.