categorical
Meaning(s)
1. clear, direct, and definite
Popularity
High
Professional
Medium
Social
How to Memorize
a categorical denial
Analysis
This expression emphasizes the meaning and unambiguity behind something, therefore it is usually used in relation to something you feel very strongly about. For example, if you feel you have been falsely accused of something you would make a categorical denial, or categorically deny your guilt. If you say something you truly mean, you state it categorically. While it is used socially, its formal nature means that it is more common in a professional context.
Social Examples (Advance)
- The politician issued a categorical denial of the allegations made against him in a national newspaper.
- I want to make it categorically clear that those kinds of racist comments are not acceptable in my company.
Professional Examples (Advance)
- Stop panicking! I can categorically state that no one's job will be affected by the new cost-cutting measures we are implementing.
- Jack is quite categorical in his refusal to work with Kevin, so there's no point putting them on the same project team.