automatically

Word parts

automatic + -ally

Pronunciation

• (UK) IPA ^(key): /ˈɔːtəʊˌmæt.ɪk(.ə)li/ or /ˈɔːtəˌmætɪk(.ə)li/
• (US) IPA ^(key): /ˌɔː.təˈmæt.ɪk(.ə)li/ or [ˌɔː.ɾəˈmæɾ.ɪk(.ə)li]

• Audio (UK)

  (file)

Adverb

Positive automatically

Comparative none

Superlative none

1. If something happens automatically, it happens without the need for a person to start it or do anything more.

   The door closed and locked automatically behind him.

   If you sign up for this, you'll automatically be entered in a contest to win a car.

2. If you do something automatically, you do it without thinking about it.

   If a man and woman spend time together, you shouldn't automatically assume they're lovers.

   "You're welcome," she said automatically.

Related words

• automatic
• automate