Negatively: meaning, definitions and examples

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negatively

 

[ ˈneɡ.ə.tɪv.li ]

Adverb
Context #1 | Adverb

expressing disapproval or criticism

In a negative manner; in a way that shows disapproval or criticism.

Synonyms

critically, disapprovingly, pessimistically, unfavorably.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
negatively

Use this word when describing an overall adverse or harmful reaction or situation without deep emotional involvement. It is general and can be applied in various contexts.

  • She spoke negatively about the new policy
  • The feedback was overwhelmingly negative
unfavorably

Use this word when presenting something in a less favorable light compared to alternatives. It is often used in comparisons or to show dissatisfaction with options.

  • The candidate’s qualifications were unfavorably compared to the others
  • The product is reviewed unfavorably by many customers
disapprovingly

Use this word to describe a reaction that shows dislike or disappointment. It often carries a moral or personal judgment and shows that someone thinks something is wrong or unacceptable.

  • She looked at him disapprovingly when he started to smoke
  • The teacher sighed disapprovingly at the student's excuse
critically

Best used when providing detailed analysis or judgement, often pointing out faults or problems. It suggests a thorough and objective examination.

  • He critically analyzed the project plan, highlighting several weaknesses
  • The report critically examines the company’s last financial year
pessimistically

Best used when describing an attitude that expects the worst to happen. It suggests expecting negative outcomes and is often linked to an overall gloomy outlook.

  • He viewed the future of the project pessimistically, doubting it would succeed
  • The article was written pessimistically, offering little hope for improvement

Examples of usage

  • She reacted negatively to the proposal.
  • The speech was received negatively by the audience.
  • He always speaks negatively about his job.
  • Try not to think negatively all the time.
  • Negatively commenting on everything won't solve the problem.
Context #2 | Adverb

in a harmful way

In a way that has a harmful or detrimental effect.

Synonyms

adversely, detrimentally, harmfully, unfavorably.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
negatively

General term used when something has a bad effect or outcome.

  • The new policy will negatively impact small businesses.
  • She spoke negatively about the project.
harmfully

Specifically describes something that causes physical or emotional damage, often in everyday contexts.

  • Smoking is harmfully affecting her lungs.
  • The rumors spread harmfully throughout the school.
detrimentally

Used when emphasizing significant harm or damage, often in scientific or technical contexts.

  • The chemicals are detrimentally affecting the ecosystem.
  • Working long hours can detrimentally impact health.
adversely

Used more formally, often in contexts involving health, environment, or legal situations.

  • The medication may adversely affect your condition.
  • The construction will adversely impact the local wildlife.
unfavorably

Describes a judgment or reaction that is not positive, often used in reviews or opinions.

  • The movie was received unfavorably by critics.
  • The manager reacted unfavorably to the proposal.

Examples of usage

  • The chemicals reacted negatively with the metal.
  • Smoking can affect your health negatively.
  • His behavior impacted the team negatively.
  • Ignoring the warning signs can lead to negative consequences.
  • Eating too much sugar can impact your body negatively.

Translations

Translations of the word "negatively" in other languages:

🇵🇹 negativamente

🇮🇳 नकारात्मक रूप से

🇩🇪 negativ

🇮🇩 negatif

🇺🇦 негативно

🇵🇱 negatywnie

🇯🇵 否定的に

🇫🇷 négativement

🇪🇸 negativamente

🇹🇷 olumsuz

🇰🇷 부정적으로

🇸🇦 بشكل سلبي

🇨🇿 negativně

🇸🇰 negatívne

🇨🇳 消极地

🇸🇮 negativno

🇮🇸 neikvæðilega

🇰🇿 теріс

🇬🇪 უარყოფითად

🇦🇿 mənfi

🇲🇽 negativamente

Etymology

The word 'negatively' is derived from the root word 'negative', which originated from the Latin word 'negativus', meaning 'denying'. The suffix '-ly' is added to form the adverb 'negatively', indicating the manner in which something is done. The use of 'negatively' in English dates back to the early 17th century, where it was used to express disapproval or criticism. Over time, its usage expanded to also describe harmful effects or consequences. Today, 'negatively' is commonly used in various contexts to convey disapproval, criticism, or the detrimental impact of certain actions.

See also: negation, negative, negator.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,879 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.