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Starkly: meaning, definitions and examples

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starkly

 

[ stɑrkli ]

Adverb
Context #1 | Adverb

contrast, clarity

Starkly is used to describe something that is done in a very clear, distinct, or striking manner. It often emphasizes a strong contrast between two things or highlights the severity of a situation. When one states something starkly, it means the information or observation is presented without any embellishment, making it more impactful. This adverb can often evoke strong feelings or images due to its blunt nature.

Synonyms

bluntly, clearly, sharply

Examples of usage

  • The differences between the two policies were starkly apparent.
  • The painting starkly contrasts light and dark themes.
  • She spoke starkly about the challenges they faced.
  • The reality of the situation became starkly clear after the meeting.

Translations

Translations of the word "starkly" in other languages:

🇵🇹 de maneira marcante

🇮🇳 स्पष्ट रूप से

🇩🇪 eindeutig

🇮🇩 secara mencolok

🇺🇦 яскраво

🇵🇱 wyraźnie

🇯🇵 はっきりと

🇫🇷 de manière frappante

🇪🇸 de manera stark

🇹🇷 açıkça

🇰🇷 뚜렷하게

🇸🇦 بشكل واضح

🇨🇿 výrazně

🇸🇰 výrazne

🇨🇳 明显地

🇸🇮 izrazito

🇮🇸 skýrt

🇰🇿 айқын

🇬🇪 ხელსაყრელად

🇦🇿 aşkar

🇲🇽 de manera clara

Etymology

The word 'starkly' originates from the Old English word 'stearc', which means 'strong' or 'rigid'. It entered the language in the early 14th century, primarily used to denote strength and seriousness. Over the centuries, the meaning evolved to encompass ideas of clarity and a lack of embellishment in descriptions and observations. As the English language developed, 'stark' became synonymous with stark contrasts or extreme states, thus giving rise to the adverb 'starkly' to effectively portray severity and bluntness. Its usage escalated during the 19th century, particularly in literary contexts, as writers sought to express strong emotions or sharp contrasts in their works. Today, 'starkly' continues to be widely used in both formal and informal contexts to convey clear distinctions and highlight the severity of various situations.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #24,674, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.