ENGLISH
REFERENCE

fiercely

adv. manner
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈfɪɹsɫi// UK //fˈiəsli// fierce·ly

adv. to do something with a lot of energy, emotion, or power. You use this when someone is very determined or when a feeling is very strong.

adv. in a powerful, intense, or aggressive manner. Often describes the intensity of a competition, a feeling, or a physical action.


SIMPLE

The two teams competed fiercely for the trophy.

CONTEXTUAL

She is fiercely independent and prefers to handle all her financial decisions without any outside help.

COMPLEX

The local community fiercely resisted the proposed development, arguing that the high-rise towers would permanently alter the historic character of the neighborhood.

Synonyms
Origin

From Middle English fersly; equivalent to fierce + -ly.

Usage

Typically placed after the verb it modifies or before an adjective to show intensity.

Pitfall

He is a fiercely personHe is a fierce personLearners often confuse the adverb 'fiercely' with the adjective 'fierce' when describing a noun directly.

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