There are certain words that serve a function of intensifying that have very limited collocations.

In fact, some of them only occur with one possible word. It’s what’s called a very strong collocation, or a “word partnership”.

Study the list of these partnerships below.

• Look at them. They’re madly in love.
• They’re twins, but they’re radically different.
• It’s safer where medicine and doctors are readily available.
• Leaving her is something I deeply regret.
• The war is an event they still bitterly resent.
• If you think you’re finished then you’re sadly mistaken.
• The two religious leaders are deeply divided.
• The prisoners managed to narrowly escape.
• If you help me I’ll be eternally grateful.
• I want you to know that I’m terribly sorry.
• I want to see the kitchen spotlessly clean.
• The stock market is fiercely competitive.
• Don’t tell anyone – it’s strictly confidential.
• Is that what you truly believe?
• She is someone I sorely miss.
• The UFO conspiracy is still hotly debated.
• I know it’s just marketing, but I think they genuinely care.
• All we can do is sincerely hope.
• Your guests anxiously await.
• She thought no one would notice but it was glaringly obvious.
• It’s possible, but I seriously doubt it.
• They don’t know for sure. Right now it’s pure conjecture.
• The scientist’s research was sharply criticized.
• Their technology is vastly superior.
• Starting the conflict is something they vehemently deny.
• Don’t worry about that. At your age it’s perfectly normal.
• The two concepts are diametrically opposed.

Reference: Como Dizer Tudo em Inglês Avançado, de Ron Martinez.