Tragically Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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tragically

[หˆtrรฆdส’ษชkli ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adverb

in a sad or unfortunate way

Tragically is used to describe something that happens in a very sad or unfortunate way. It is often associated with events or situations that cause great sorrow or grief.

Synonyms

sadly, sorrowfully, unfortunately.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
tragically

This word is used when something very bad or sad happens, particularly involving death or serious injury. It often carries a sense of drama or fate.

  • He died tragically in a car accident
  • The story ended tragically for all the characters involved
sadly

This word expresses a feeling of deep sadness or disappointment. It is less intense than 'tragically' and can be used in a broader range of situations, not necessarily involving death or severe loss.

  • Sadly, we missed the last train
  • She looked sadly at the photo of her old friends
unfortunately

This word is used to express that something bad or disappointing happened, often in a more casual or everyday context. It does not carry the same weight of deep sadness as the other words.

  • Unfortunately, we have to cancel the picnic due to rain
  • Unfortunately, she didn't get the job she applied for
sorrowfully

This word conveys a deep feeling of grief or regret, often in a very emotional or heartfelt way. It can be used in more formal contexts or literary descriptions.

  • He sorrowfully recounted the events of that terrible day
  • The widow spoke sorrowfully about her late husband

Examples of usage

  • He died tragically in a car accident.
  • The war ended tragically with many lives lost.
  • She spoke tragically about her childhood trauma.
Context #2 | Adverb

in a disastrous or catastrophic way

Tragically can also be used to describe something that happens in a disastrous or catastrophic way. It implies a sense of great loss or destruction.

Synonyms

catastrophically, devastatingly, disastrously.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
tragically

Use this word when referring to an event that is sad and involves suffering or death, often with a sense of deep sorrow or regret.

  • He passed away tragically in a car accident
  • The child was tragically taken from her family too soon
disastrously

This word indicates that something went terribly wrong, leading to serious problems or a bad outcome, and often used to describe failures.

  • The plan failed disastrously, causing a significant setback
  • His decisions were disastrously ineffective, worsening the situation
catastrophically

This word is best when describing an event that leads to complete disaster or failure, often with widespread damage or negative consequences.

  • The dam failure catastrophically flooded the entire valley
  • The project ended catastrophically, with significant financial losses
devastatingly

Use this word to emphasize the extreme impact, destruction, or emotional toll of an event. It conveys a strong sense of shock and grief.

  • The hurricane hit the town devastatingly, leaving nothing but ruins
  • She was devastatingly heartbroken by the news

Examples of usage

  • The building collapsed tragically due to poor construction.
  • The plane crashed tragically, resulting in multiple casualties.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • Many famous playwrights, like Shakespeare, used tragic elements to explore complex human emotions and moral dilemmas.
  • Tragedy as a genre typically focuses on the protagonist's downfall due to a flaw, leading to an emotional experience for the audience.
  • The concept is not just limited to plays; many novels and films include tragic elements that resonate with viewers.

Psychology

  • Experiencing tragedy can lead to 'post-traumatic growth,' where individuals find new meaning in life after hardship.
  • Exposure to tragic events can increase empathy and understanding of others' struggles.
  • Conversely, frequent exposure to tragic stories can lead to emotional desensitization, making it harder to feel empathy over time.

Film and Television

  • Some of the most acclaimed films, like 'Schindler's List,' depict tragic narratives that make audiences reflect on historical events.
  • Television shows sometimes use tragic twists to create suspense and keep viewers engaged, exploring themes of loss and resilience.
  • Animated films, such as 'The Lion King,' illustrate tragic events that shape characters, teaching valuable life lessons.

Cultural References

  • In many cultures, tragic stories are passed down through folklore to teach moral lessons or explain human experiences.
  • The tragic hero archetype appears in various cultures, like in the tales of heroes who face inevitable downfall due to their choices.
  • Music often captures tragedy, with artists expressing heartache and loss through poignant lyrics.

Origin of 'tragically'

Main points about word origin

  • Derived from the Greek word 'tragลidia,' which means 'goat song,' linked to performances that ended in sadness.
  • The term evolved through Old French into Middle English, reinforcing its ties to storytelling and drama.
  • Ancient Greek tragedies were often performed in large amphitheaters, highlighting themes of fate and human suffering.

The word tragically originates from the adjective 'tragic', which comes from the Greek word 'tragikos', meaning pertaining to tragedy. Tragedy has been a significant theme in literature and drama, depicting the suffering and downfall of a protagonist. The adverb 'tragically' emerged to describe events or situations that mirror the sorrow and devastation often found in tragic stories.


Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,932, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.