propiamente
“propiamente” means “strictly speaking” in Spanish (when clarifying the exact definition of something).
strictly speaking
Also: properly, literally
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Esto no es un bosque propiamente dicho, sino un parque grande.
B2Strictly speaking, this isn't a forest, but a large park.
Para hablar propiamente, tendríamos que analizar los datos primero.
C1To speak accurately, we would have to analyze the data first.
La película no es de terror propiamente, es más un suspenso.
B2The movie isn't strictly horror; it's more of a thriller.
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Quick Quiz: propiamente
Question 1 of 3
What does 'propiamente dicho' mean in a sentence?
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🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin 'proprius' (particular to oneself) and the suffix '-mente' (which originally referred to doing something with a specific 'mind' or 'intent').
First recorded: 15th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use 'propiamente' to mean 'correctly'?
Yes, but usually in terms of logic or classification. If you mean 'you did the math correctly,' 'correctamente' is better.
Does it have a feminine form like 'propiamenta'?
No. All Spanish words ending in '-mente' are the same regardless of who is speaking or what they are talking about.
Is 'propiamente' the same as 'propietario'?
No. 'Propietario' means an owner of a house or business, while 'propiamente' relates to things being 'proper' or 'exact'.