consciously

[ kon-shuhs-lee ]

adverb

1. with knowledge or awareness of one's own existence, sensations, thoughts, surroundings, etc.:

   Negative attitudes can be reinforced, both consciously and unconsciously, by teachers, parents, and peers.

   At any moment we probably aren't consciously aware of most of the sounds around us.

2. with clear intent; deliberately:

   The need to consciously make time for exercise is a relatively recent phenomenon.

3. in a way that is sustainable, or with awareness of one’s effect on the environment, society, etc.:

   Shop locally and consciously, and support a business that supports our community.

Other Words From

• half-con·scious·ly adverb
• non·con·scious·ly adverb
• o·ver·con·scious·ly adverb
• qua·si-con·scious·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of consciously¹

conscious ( def ) + -ly

Example Sentences

Still, there has been little scientific understanding of how the brain consciously controls our breathing and whether this actually has a direct effect on our anxiety and emotional state.

From Science Daily

Habits happen when automatic responses outweigh our ability to consciously control them.

From Science Daily

But a former Reid adviser, James Manley, said he believes Trump is consciously trying to erode that boundary, and he’s skeptical that Republican lawmakers have the stomach to stand up to him.

From Los Angeles Times

Personally, I wouldn't say that I consciously make a connection.

From Salon

I’ve enjoyed the way that this show is consciously divorced from the world's troubles, yet manages to speak to things that are nagging at us at any given moment by helping us laugh at them.

From Salon

Related Words

• knowingly
• pointedly
• purposely
• studiously
• voluntarily
• willfully