Preternatural vs Preternaturally: Meaning And Differences

When it comes to describing something that is beyond the natural, two words that often come up are preternatural and preternaturally. But which one is the proper word to use? The answer is that both are correct, but they have slightly different meanings.

Preternatural refers to something that is beyond what is considered natural or normal. It is often used to describe things that are unusual or supernatural, such as a preternatural ability or a preternatural event. On the other hand, preternaturally is an adverb that describes the manner in which something is done. It means “in a way that is beyond what is natural or normal.”

Throughout this article, we will explore the differences between preternatural and preternaturally, and how they can be used in various contexts.

Define Preternatural

Preternatural refers to something that is beyond what is considered natural or normal. It is often used to describe something that is supernatural or paranormal in nature. Preternatural can also be used to describe something that is inexplicable or unusual.

For example, a preternatural event could be a ghost sighting or a psychic phenomenon. It could also refer to an animal with abnormal abilities, such as a dog that can sense when its owner is about to have a seizure.

Preternatural can also be used to describe a person who has exceptional abilities or talents that are beyond what is considered normal. For instance, a preternaturally talented musician might be able to play a complex piece of music with ease after only hearing it once.

Define Preternaturally

Preternaturally is an adverb that describes something that is done in a way that is beyond what is considered natural or normal. It is often used to describe a person who has exceptional abilities or talents that are beyond what is considered normal.

For example, a preternaturally talented athlete might be able to perform feats of physical prowess that seem impossible to others. A preternaturally intelligent person might be able to solve complex problems with ease.

Preternaturally can also be used to describe something that is done in an inexplicable or unusual way. For instance, a preternaturally quiet room might be so silent that it seems eerie or unnatural.

In summary, preternatural and preternaturally both refer to things that are beyond what is considered natural or normal. Preternatural is a noun that describes something, while preternaturally is an adverb that describes how something is done.

How To Properly Use The Words In A Sentence

Using the words preternatural and preternaturally correctly in a sentence can add depth and specificity to your writing. Here’s how to use them properly:

How To Use Preternatural In A Sentence

The word preternatural is an adjective that describes something beyond what is normal or natural. Here are some examples of how to use preternatural in a sentence:

• Her preternatural strength allowed her to lift the car off the ground.
• The preternatural calm of the monk was unnerving to those around him.
• The preternatural beauty of the sunset took our breath away.

Notice how preternatural is used to describe something that goes beyond what is expected or natural. It is often used to describe supernatural or paranormal phenomena.

How To Use Preternaturally In A Sentence

The word preternaturally is an adverb that describes something done in a preternatural manner. Here are some examples of how to use preternaturally in a sentence:

• She preternaturally sensed danger before anyone else.
• He moved preternaturally fast, dodging every punch thrown at him.
• The preternaturally quiet forest was almost eerie in its stillness.

Notice how preternaturally is used to describe how something is done that goes beyond what is expected or natural. It is often used to describe supernatural or paranormal abilities or actions.

By using preternatural and preternaturally correctly in your writing, you can add a level of specificity and depth that will engage your readers and enhance your writing.

More Examples Of Preternatural & Preternaturally Used In Sentences

In this section, we will provide additional examples of how preternatural and preternaturally can be used in sentences. By seeing these words in context, we can gain a better understanding of their meanings and how they can be applied in various situations.

Examples Of Using Preternatural In A Sentence

• The athlete’s preternatural abilities on the field left the audience in awe.
• The preternatural calmness of the hostage negotiator helped to diffuse the tense situation.
• Her preternatural intuition allowed her to predict the outcome of the experiment before it even began.
• The preternatural strength of the monster made it nearly impossible to defeat.
• His preternatural memory allowed him to recall every detail of the conversation from months ago.
• The preternatural beauty of the sunset took our breath away.
• The preternatural speed of the cheetah made it the fastest land animal on earth.
• Her preternatural talent for music was evident from a very young age.
• The preternatural silence of the forest was broken only by the occasional rustling of leaves.
• The preternatural stillness of the lake made it appear as if it were a mirror.

Examples Of Using Preternaturally In A Sentence

• The preternaturally quiet baby slept through the entire night.
• His preternaturally long fingers made him an excellent pianist.
• The preternaturally cold winter caused many pipes to burst.
• Her preternaturally clear skin was the envy of all her friends.
• The preternaturally intelligent child was reading at a college level by the age of six.
• His preternaturally deep voice made him a natural fit for radio broadcasting.
• The preternaturally bright colors of the flowers caught the eye of everyone who passed by.
• Her preternaturally calm demeanor helped her to remain composed during the crisis.
• The preternaturally organized desk made it easy to find everything she needed.
• His preternaturally keen sense of smell allowed him to detect even the slightest hint of danger.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

When it comes to using the words preternatural and preternaturally, many people make the mistake of using them interchangeably. However, these two words have different meanings and should not be used interchangeably. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when using these words:

Using Preternatural And Preternaturally Interchangeably

One of the most common mistakes people make is using preternatural and preternaturally interchangeably. Preternatural refers to something that is beyond what is considered normal or natural, while preternaturally refers to something that is done in a way that is beyond what is considered normal or natural.

For example, you might say that a person has preternatural strength if they are able to lift a car. However, you would say that the person lifted the car preternaturally if they did it in a way that defies explanation, such as by levitating it with their mind.

Using these words interchangeably can lead to confusion and misunderstandings, so it is important to use them correctly.

Not Understanding The Difference Between Preternatural And Supernatural

Another common mistake is using preternatural and supernatural interchangeably. While these words are similar, they have distinct meanings. Preternatural refers to something that is beyond what is considered natural, while supernatural refers to something that is beyond what is considered natural and cannot be explained by science or the laws of nature.

For example, you might say that a person has preternatural abilities if they are able to do things that are beyond what is considered normal, such as having incredible strength or agility. However, you would say that a person has supernatural abilities if they are able to do things that cannot be explained by science or the laws of nature, such as levitating or communicating with the dead.

Understanding the difference between these two words can help you use them correctly and avoid confusion.

Tips For Using Preternatural And Preternaturally Correctly

• Make sure you understand the difference between preternatural and preternaturally before using them in your writing.
• Use preternatural to describe something that is beyond what is considered normal or natural.
• Use preternaturally to describe something that is done in a way that is beyond what is considered normal or natural.
• Avoid using preternatural and preternaturally interchangeably.
• Avoid using preternatural and supernatural interchangeably.

By following these tips, you can use preternatural and preternaturally correctly and avoid common mistakes.

Context Matters

When it comes to using the words preternatural and preternaturally, context is key. While both words refer to something beyond what is considered natural or normal, the choice between them can depend on the specific context in which they are being used.

Examples Of Different Contexts

Here are some examples of different contexts and how the choice between preternatural and preternaturally might change:

Context	Example Sentence	Preferred Word Choice
Describing an Ability or Power	“She had a preternatural ability to sense danger.”	Preternatural
Describing an Action or Behavior	“He moved preternaturally fast.”	Preternaturally
Describing a Feeling or Emotion	“The preternatural calmness of the situation was eerie.”	Preternatural
Describing a State or Condition	“The preternatural stillness of the forest was unsettling.”	Preternatural

As you can see from these examples, the choice between preternatural and preternaturally can depend on whether you are describing an ability or power versus an action or behavior, a feeling or emotion versus a state or condition, and more.

It’s important to consider the context in which you are using these words in order to choose the most appropriate option and convey your intended meaning clearly and effectively.

Exceptions To The Rules

While the usage of preternatural and preternaturally follows a certain set of rules, there are exceptions where these rules may not apply. Here are some examples:

1. Colloquial Language

In informal or colloquial language, the rules for using preternatural and preternaturally may not be strictly followed. In these cases, the words may be used interchangeably without much thought given to their specific meanings.

For instance:

• “That basketball player has preternatural abilities on the court.”
• “That basketball player is preternaturally good.”

Both sentences convey the same idea and are acceptable in casual conversation.

2. Literary Devices

Authors may sometimes use preternatural and preternaturally in a figurative or poetic sense, deviating from their strict definitions. In these cases, the words may be used to create a certain effect or mood in the reader.

For example:

• “The preternatural silence of the forest was only broken by the occasional hoot of an owl.”
• “She moved through the party preternaturally, as if she were a ghost.”

In these sentences, preternatural and preternaturally are used to describe a feeling or atmosphere, rather than a specific ability or action.

3. Regional Differences

There may be regional differences in the usage of preternatural and preternaturally. In some areas, one word may be favored over the other, or their meanings may be slightly different.

For instance:

• In British English, preternatural is sometimes used to mean “unnatural” or “abnormal”, whereas in American English, it is more commonly used to mean “supernatural”.
• In some parts of the United States, preternaturally may be used more frequently than preternatural, or vice versa.

It is important to be aware of these regional differences when using these words in writing or conversation.

Practice Exercises

Now that we have delved into the meaning and usage of preternatural and preternaturally, it’s time to put your knowledge to the test. Below are some practice exercises that will help you improve your understanding and use of these words in sentences. Make sure to read the instructions carefully and utilize the correct form of the word in each sentence.

Exercise 1

Choose the correct word to complete each sentence:

1. The ____________ abilities of the psychic were truly remarkable.
2. She moved with a ____________ grace that mesmerized the audience.
3. He was ____________ calm in the face of danger.
4. The ____________ gifted artist created a masterpiece.

Answer Key:

1. preternatural
2. preternatural
3. preternaturally
4. preternaturally

Exercise 2

Write a sentence using preternatural and a sentence using preternaturally. Then, explain the difference in meaning between the two sentences.

Example Answer:

• Her preternatural strength allowed her to lift the heavy box with ease.
• She preternaturally knew exactly what to say to diffuse the situation.
• The first sentence refers to a supernatural or extraordinary quality, while the second sentence refers to an action or behavior that is beyond what is normal or expected.

Make sure to check your answers and explanations to ensure you are using the words correctly.

Conclusion

After exploring the differences between preternatural and preternaturally, it’s clear that these two words have distinct meanings and uses in the English language. Preternatural refers to something that is beyond the natural or normal, while preternaturally describes the manner in which something is done or the quality of being beyond the natural.

It’s important to use these words correctly in order to convey the intended meaning and avoid confusion. This is just one example of the many nuances of the English language that can be challenging to navigate, but it’s worth the effort to improve our communication skills.

Key Takeaways:

• Preternatural and preternaturally have different meanings and uses.
• Preternatural refers to something beyond the natural or normal.
• Preternaturally describes the manner in which something is done or the quality of being beyond the natural.
• Using these words correctly is important for clear communication.

As with any aspect of language and grammar, there is always more to learn. By continuing to expand our knowledge and understanding, we can become more effective communicators and better appreciate the richness of the English language.