Desperately: meaning, definitions and examples

When someone is in a state of great need or extreme anxiety, often accompanied by a sense of urgency or panic.

• She searched desperately for her lost child in the crowded mall

Appropriate for situations that require immediate action or attention, often with a sense of pressing importance.

• The email said we must respond urgently to the client's request

Used when someone is acting in a hurried, excited, and chaotic manner, often because of a sense of panic or urgency.

• He called her frantically after hearing about the accident

Applied in situations where someone feels there is no chance of success or improvement. This word often carries a negative connotation.

• Anna looked at the broken vase hopelessly, knowing she couldn't fix it

Best used when discussing something important that requires careful thought, attention, or concern.

• We need to talk seriously about your future plans

Used when someone is in a situation of extreme need or urgency, often conveying a sense of hopelessness.

• She desperately searched for her lost child
• He was desperately trying to find a job

Generally used to express a mild to moderate level of sadness or regret.

• Sadly, we cannot attend the wedding
• She watched the sunset sadly, thinking of her departed friend

Used to describe a feeling or expression of deep sadness, often due to a loss or bereavement.

• He looked at the old photographs mournfully
• She spoke mournfully about her deceased husband

Used when someone is extremely upset or agitated, often to the point of having trouble thinking or acting normally.

• She distraughtly explained the incident to the police
• He wandered around the room distraughtly after hearing the bad news