# adversely

/ædˈvɝsɫi/ (US) · /ædvˈɜːsli/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adverb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/adversely
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

in a way that is negative or harmful. You use this when something has a bad effect on a situation or person.

For teachers: in a manner that is harmful, negative, or contrary to one's interests. Often used to describe how external factors impact a system, health, or financial status.

## Examples

- The cold weather affected the crops adversely.
- The new tax laws will adversely affect small businesses that rely on international shipping.
- Economists worry that the sudden increase in interest rates will adversely impact consumer spending, potentially leading to a period of stagnant growth across the retail sector.

## Pitfalls

- Not "The news adversely affected to him." but "The news adversely affected him." — Adversely is an adverb modifying the verb 'affect', which is transitive and does not take the preposition 'to'.

## Usage notes

- Typically placed before the verb it modifies or at the end of the clause.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.