Desperately Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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desperately
[ˈdɛsp(ə)rətli ]
Definitions
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.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| desperately |
When someone is in a state of great need or extreme anxiety, often accompanied by a sense of urgency or panic.
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| urgently |
Appropriate for situations that require immediate action or attention, often with a sense of pressing importance.
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| frantically |
Used when someone is acting in a hurried, excited, and chaotic manner, often because of a sense of panic or urgency.
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| hopelessly |
Applied in situations where someone feels there is no chance of success or improvement. This word often carries a negative connotation.
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| seriously |
Best used when discussing something important that requires careful thought, attention, or concern.
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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.
emotions
In a way that is very sad and without hope. In a way that shows extreme despair or distress.
Synonyms
distraughtly, mournfully, sadly.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| desperately |
Used when someone is in a situation of extreme need or urgency, often conveying a sense of hopelessness.
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| sadly |
Generally used to express a mild to moderate level of sadness or regret.
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| mournfully |
Used to describe a feeling or expression of deep sadness, often due to a loss or bereavement.
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| distraughtly |
Used when someone is extremely upset or agitated, often to the point of having trouble thinking or acting normally.
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Examples of usage
- She cried desperately when she heard the bad news.
- He looked desperately at his failing business.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Feeling desperate can result from stress or serious life changes, affecting how a person thinks and acts.
- Cognitive theories suggest that desperation can skew a person's perception, making them focus only on their immediate needs.
- This emotion can lead to impulsive decisions, often clouding judgement in tough situations.
Literature
- Desperation is a common theme in classic literature, illustrating characters in dire situations, such as in Shakespeare's plays.
- Many authors use the state of feeling desperate as a turning point in a character's journey, leading to growth or downfall.
- In contemporary novels, characters often face desperate choices that reveal their true morals and resilience.
Pop Culture
- The term has been popularized through songs and movies, often representing a longing or a plea for help.
- In reality TV shows, contestants often express they are playing 'desperately' to win, adding drama to their narratives.
- Popular songs titled 'Desperately' explore themes of love and loss, resonating with audiences on emotional levels.
Science
- In biology, organisms may exhibit desperate behaviors when seeking resources like food or mates, often leading to intense competition.
- Studies show that high stress levels can trigger desperate actions in both animals and humans, highlighting survival instincts.
- The ‘fight-or-flight’ response often seen in desperate situations is tied to evolutionary traits, ensuring survival.
Origin of 'desperately'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'desperatus', meaning 'given up hope', showing a deep sense of hopelessness.
- It evolved through Old French before appearing in English, highlighting a loss of hope over time.
- Originally linked to the state of losing hope, it described a person's emotional state.
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.