# harshly

/ˈhɑɹʃɫi/ (US) · /hˈɑːʃli/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adverb

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

## Definition

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.

For teachers: in a manner that is severe, cruel, or excessively critical. Often describes the way someone speaks, judges, or treats others.

## Examples

- 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.

## Usage notes

- Typically follows the verb it modifies or the direct object.

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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.