Abysmally Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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abysmally

[ษ™หˆbษชz.mษ™.li ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adverb

in a very bad or low quality manner

Abysmally means in a very bad or low quality manner. It is used to describe something that is extremely poor, terrible, or of the lowest standard.

Synonyms

atrociously, dismally, horribly.

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Word Description / Examples
abysmally

Used when describing something done in an extremely poor manner; often has a dramatic or emphatic tone.

  • The project was managed abysmally
  • He performed abysmally on his final exams
dismally

Used to describe something done in a gloomy or depressing manner; often applied to failures or poor performances.

  • The team performed dismally in the championship
  • The weather was dismally gray and rainy
atrociously

Used to describe actions or situations that are shockingly bad, often with a sense of moral outrage; carries a strong negative connotation.

  • The service at the restaurant was atrociously slow
  • She behaved atrociously during the meeting
horribly

Used when describing something done in a very unpleasant or distressing way; can indicate general discomfort or disappointment.

  • She played the piano horribly
  • The movie ended horribly

Examples of usage

  • It was an abysmally organized event, with no clear schedule or direction.
  • The team played abysmally, losing every match in the tournament.
  • She failed the exam abysmally, scoring the lowest in the class.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • In the realm of television, critics have occasionally described shows as abysmally low in quality, leading to their quick cancellation.
  • Abysmally bad acting is often highlighted in film reviews, becoming memes or phrases among fans, showcasing how impactful poor performances can be.
  • The term has often been used in comedic contexts, such as skits or stand-up routines, to emphasize exaggeration of poor quality.

Science

  • In environmental science, researchers have noted abysmally low numbers of certain species, prompting concern over biodiversity loss and habitat destruction.
  • Studies show that abysmally low test scores in education can highlight systemic issues in teaching methods and access to resources.
  • Abysmal conditions can refer to health metrics in regions suffering from poverty, helping to raise awareness about global health crises.

Psychology

  • Feeling abysmally inadequate can negatively impact self-esteem and motivation, leading individuals to disengage in various areas of life.
  • Research in psychology suggests that labeling experiences as 'abysmal' can help individuals identify and process extreme emotions effectively.
  • In cognitive behavioral therapy, discussing abysmally negative thoughts allows for reframing towards more constructive perspectives.

Literature

  • Abysmally depicted characters in literature often serve to highlight the stark contrast with more heroic figures, demonstrating depth in storytelling.
  • Authors may use abysmal settings to evoke feelings of despair or hopelessness, setting a tone for their narratives.
  • In dramatic poetry, the use of 'abysmal' language can contribute to themes of existential dread or moral decline, enriching the readerโ€™s experience.

Origin of 'abysmally'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the noun 'abyss,' meaning a bottomless pit or deep void, often used to describe something that seems endless.
  • It was formed by adding the suffix '-ally' to 'abysmal,' leading to its use in describing something extremely bad.
  • The word 'abysmal' emerged in the mid-19th century, deriving from the Greek 'abyssos,' meaning 'bottomless.'

The word 'abysmally' is derived from the word 'abysmal', which comes from the Late Latin 'abyssimus', superlative of 'abyssus' meaning 'bottomless'. The usage of 'abysmally' to describe something of extremely poor quality or in a very bad manner dates back to the late 19th century.


Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #36,220, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.