Negatively: meaning, definitions and examples

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negatively

[ˈneɡ.ə.tɪv.li ]

Definitions

^{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?

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?

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.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The term comes from the Latin word 'negativus', meaning 'denying' or 'refusing'.
It entered the English language in the late 15th century, originally used in the context of logic and philosophy.
In modern usage, it has expanded significantly to express feelings, attitudes, and reactions.

Psychology

Research indicates that negative feelings can lead to stress and anxiety, impacting mental health.
Negative thinking patterns can be habitual and often require cognitive behavioral techniques to manage.
Positive psychology emphasizes the need to balance negative and positive experiences for overall well-being.

Communication

Using negative language can create barriers in communication, leading to misunderstandings.
In assertive communication, expressing negative feelings can be constructive if done respectfully.
Body language and tone convey negativity as much as the words spoken, affecting interpersonal dynamics.

Pop Culture

The phrase 'negativity bias' describes how negative experiences are often remembered more than positive ones.
Many movies and songs explore themes of heartbreak and loss, often portraying characters dealing with negativity.
The emergence of social media has amplified the spread of negative news and attitudes, creating a 'doomscrolling' phenomenon.

Science

In chemistry, a negatively charged ion is called an anion, which attracts positive ions.
Negative feedback loops are essential in homeostasis, helping systems maintain balance.
In physics, negativity can describe energy states that are lower compared to a defined baseline.

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

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.

...
8876 helium
8877 proportionate
8878 inverted
8879 negatively
8880 killer
8881 labelled
8882 boost
...