# frantically

/ˈfɹænəkəɫi/ (US) · /fɹˈɑːntɪkli/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adverb

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

## Definition

doing something in a very fast, worried, or disorganized way because you are in a hurry or afraid. You use this when someone is panicking or has too much to do at once.

For teachers: in a hurried, excited, or disorganized manner, typically resulting from fear, anxiety, or an urgent need to complete a task.

## Examples

- She searched frantically for her lost keys.
- The students worked frantically to finish their exams before the final bell rang.
- As the floodwaters began to rise, the villagers worked frantically to stack sandbags along the riverbank, hoping to protect their homes from the impending surge.

## Usage notes

- Typically follows the verb it modifies or appears 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.