English Reference
Adverb

anxiously

adv. manner
B2 Upper Intermediate US /ˈæŋkʃəsɫi/ UK /ˈæŋʃəsli/ anx·ious·ly

adv.in a way that shows you are worried or nervous. You use this when someone is waiting for news or is afraid of what might happen.

adv.in a manner characterized by nervousness, apprehension, or unease. Typically modifies verbs related to waiting, watching, or speaking.


SIMPLE

She waited anxiously for the doctor to call.

CONTEXTUAL

The students sat anxiously in the hallway while the teacher graded their final exams.

COMPLEX

As the storm clouds gathered on the horizon, the sailors watched the darkening sky anxiously, knowing their small vessel was ill-equipped for a gale.

Usage

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

Nothing is left." At Kathmandu's TU Teaching Hospital, families of those missing in the floods wait anxiously for updates.

BBC News· 28 Aug 2026

Brave Irene wrestles the dress and rides the box downhill like a sled in order to reach the duchess, who is anxiously waiting for her gown.

The Conversation· 14 Aug 2026

From anxious + -ly.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Occasional
Updated