harshly
adv. manner B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈhɑɹʃɫi// UK //hˈɑːʃli// harsh·ly
adv. in a way that is unkind, cruel, or very strict. You use this when someone speaks or acts with a lot of force or judgment.
adv. in a manner that is severe, cruel, or excessively critical. Often describes the way someone speaks, judges, or treats others.
The teacher spoke harshly to the student who was late.
The critics judged the new film harshly, focusing on the weak script rather than the strong acting.
In the high-pressure world of professional sports, even minor mistakes are often punished harshly by both the media and the fans.
From harsh + -ly.
Usage
Typically follows the verb it modifies or the direct object.
- Adjectiveharsh
- Adverbharshly