Badly

Definition

Badly is an adverb used to describe actions done in a poor, inadequate, or undesirable manner. It can also express a strong need or desire, or indicate the severe degree of something negative.

Parts of Speech

• Adverb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈbæd.li/
• Respelling: BAD-lee

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈbæd.li/
• Respelling: BAD-lee

Etymology

The word "badly" originates from the Middle English term "bad," which meant “wicked” or “deficient.” The addition of the suffix "-ly" created the adverbial form to describe actions performed poorly or to an unfortunate degree. The term has been in use since the late 14th century.

Derivatives

• Bad (adjective)
• Badness (noun)
• Badly-off (adjective)
• Worse (comparative)
• Worst (superlative)

Synonyms

• Poorly
• Ineffectively
• Terribly

Antonyms

• Well
• Successfully
• Efficiently

Usage

The term "badly" is often used to describe an action done in a substandard way or an intense negative condition. For example, "He drove badly on the icy roads," or "She wanted the job badly."

Related Terms

• Poorly: Done in a manner lacking quality or care.
• Ineffectively: Done without success or desired effect.
• Terribly: Performed in a way that is very poor or unpleasant.

Detailed Definitions

Adverb

• In a poor, substandard, or inadequate manner: Refers to actions performed without skill or quality.
  • Example: "He played the piano badly, hitting many wrong notes."
• To a severe or great extent: Used to indicate the strong degree of a negative quality or condition.
  • Example: "The patient was hurt badly in the accident."
• To indicate a strong need or desire: Describes an intense feeling or wish for something.
  • Example: "She wanted to win the race badly."