Is 'Auditorily' a Word: Exploring its Etymology and Usage
The term 'auditorily' can sometimes raise questions about its status as a legitimate word. This article will delve into the etymology of 'auditory' and its adverbial form 'auditorily', providing insights into its usage and acceptance in the English language.
Etymology and Formation
The word 'auditory' is an adjective that pertains to the sense of hearing. Its formation follows a systematic pattern in English, involving the addition of the suffix -y to denote a quality or state related to the noun, in this case, 'auditory' from the root 'auditory' or the noun 'auditor' (an auditorium, for instance).
Adding the suffix -ly to the end of 'auditory' yields 'auditorily', which serves as an adverb. This process is a common one in English, where adverbs are frequently derived by adding -ly to adjectives. Examples include 'noisily', 'gratefully', and 'timidly'. The suffix -ly is productive, meaning it can form new adverbs from a wide range of adjectives, even if they don't have pre-existing counterparts.
Understanding Auditorily
'Auditorily' is not only a valid English word but also a useful term in various contexts. Its meaning is clear and logical: it refers to actions or processes related to the sense of hearing. For example, when a sound is perceived through the ears, it is auditorily perceived.
Consider the sentence 'Music is experienced auditorily'. In this case, 'auditorily' emphasizes not just the physical perception through the ears but also the cognitive processing that occurs in the brain, particularly in areas responsible for auditory processing. This usage highlights the versatility and precision that 'auditorily' can bring to language.
Comparison with 'Aurally'
There is another adverb that can be used in similar contexts: 'aurally'. While 'auditory' is an adjective derived from a root noun, 'aural' and 'aurally' are derived from the Latin word auris, meaning 'ear'. Hence, 'aurally' specifically refers to sounds or their effects on the ears. Both 'auditorily' and 'aurally' are adverbs that can describe hearing, but 'auditorily' has a broader application to encompass the entire auditory system, while 'aurally' focuses more on sound reception in the auditory organs.
For example, if you say, 'I heard the sound aurally', it emphasizes the process of hearing in the ear. On the other hand, 'I processed the sound auditorily' might mean that the sound was recognized and interpreted through the entire auditory system, including mental processes.
Conclusion
Ultimately, 'auditorily' is well-established as a word in the English language, both in dictionaries and in actual use. While it may not be as widely used as other adverbs, its etymology and definition leave no doubt about its legitimacy. Lexicographers and language purists might debate its nuances, but its inclusion in major dictionaries and its practical use in modern language demonstrate its acceptance and usefulness.
Understanding and correctly using adverbs like 'auditorily' can enhance the precision and richness of one's communication. Whether you choose 'auditorily' or 'aurally', be mindful of your intended meaning and the context of your usage.