Adversely: meaning, definitions and examples

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adversely

 

[ ədˈvɜːrsli ]

Adverb
Context #1 | Adverb

in a negative or harmful way

Adversely means in a way that has a negative or harmful effect on something. It is often used to describe the impact of certain actions, events, or conditions.

Synonyms

detrimentally, harmfully, negatively, unfavorably.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
adversely

Use this word in formal contexts to describe situations where something has a harmful or unfavorable impact on another thing. It is commonly found in academic, legal, or professional settings.

  • The new policy changes have adversely affected small businesses
negatively

Common in both formal and informal contexts, this word is used to describe something that causes a bad or less favorable outcome or impression.

  • Criticism from the manager negatively impacted team morale
harmfully

This word is used to describe actions or elements that have a damaging effect, often intentionally or knowingly. It is appropriate in both formal and informal contexts.

  • Smoking harmfully affects your health
unfavorably

This word is generally used in formal contexts to describe something that is not beneficial or does not meet expectations. It often appears in evaluations, reports, or analyses.

  • The proposal was unfavorably received by the board members
detrimentally

This word is also suitable for formal and professional contexts and used to express a negative impact that causes damage or harm. It's often found in scientific, environmental, or medical discussions.

  • The chemicals from the factory are detrimentally affecting marine life

Examples of usage

  • Smoking can adversely affect your health.
  • The economic downturn has adversely impacted businesses.
  • Exposure to sunlight can adversely affect the skin.
  • Adversely affecting the environment can have long-term consequences.
  • She reacted adversely to the medication.

Translations

Translations of the word "adversely" in other languages:

🇵🇹 adversamente

🇮🇳 प्रतिकूल रूप से

🇩🇪 nachteilig

🇮🇩 secara merugikan

🇺🇦 негативно

🇵🇱 niekorzystnie

🇯🇵 悪影響を及ぼすように

🇫🇷 négativement

🇪🇸 adversamente

🇹🇷 olumsuz şekilde

🇰🇷 부정적으로

🇸🇦 سلبًا

🇨🇿 nepříznivě

🇸🇰 nepriaznivo

🇨🇳 不利地

🇸🇮 negativno

🇮🇸 neikvætt

🇰🇿 кері әсер

🇬🇪 უარყოფითად

🇦🇿 mənfi təsir

🇲🇽 adversamente

Etymology

The word 'adversely' is derived from the adjective 'adverse,' which comes from the Latin word 'adversus,' meaning 'turned against.' The concept of something working against or in opposition to something else has been around for centuries. In English, the adverb 'adversely' has been used since at least the 17th century to describe actions or effects that have a negative impact. Over time, its usage has become more common in various fields, including science, economics, and health.

See also: adversity.

Word Frequency Rank

At #7,294 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.