Desperately: meaning, definitions and examples

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desperately

 

[ ˈdɛsp(ə)rətli ]

Adverb
Context #1 | Adverb

feeling

In a way that shows a great desire or need for something. In a way that is very serious or dangerous. In a way that is done without hope of succeeding.

Synonyms

frantically, hopelessly, seriously, urgently

Examples of usage

  • She was desperately searching for her lost keys.
  • He desperately needed a job to pay the bills.
  • The situation was desperately out of control.
Context #2 | Adverb

emotions

In a way that is very sad and without hope. In a way that shows extreme despair or distress.

Synonyms

distraughtly, mournfully, sadly

Examples of usage

  • She cried desperately when she heard the bad news.
  • He looked desperately at his failing business.

Translations

Translations of the word "desperately" in other languages:

🇵🇹 desesperadamente

🇮🇳 निराशाजनक रूप से

🇩🇪 verzweifelt

🇮🇩 dengan putus asa

🇺🇦 відчайдушно

🇵🇱 desperacko

🇯🇵 必死に (ひっしに)

🇫🇷 désespérément

🇪🇸 desesperadamente

🇹🇷 umutsuzca

🇰🇷 절박하게

🇸🇦 بشدة

🇨🇿 zoufale

🇸🇰 zúfalo

🇨🇳 拼命地 (pīn mìng de)

🇸🇮 obupano

🇮🇸 örvæntingarfullt

🇰🇿 үмітсіздікпен

🇬🇪 სასოწარკვეთილად (sasocarqvetilad)

🇦🇿 ümidsizcə

🇲🇽 desesperadamente

Word origin

The word 'desperately' originated from the Old French word 'desesperer' which means 'to despair'. It first appeared in the English language in the 15th century. Over time, its usage has evolved to convey a sense of extreme need or hopelessness.

See also: desperation.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,107 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.