Word
hilariously
Phoneticshi·lar·i·ous·ly, stress on the second syllable
US/hɪˈɫɛɹiəsɫi/
UK/hɪlˈeəɹɪəsli/
Adverb of manner
Definition
adv. in a way that is extremely funny. You use this when something makes you laugh a lot.
adv. in an extremely amusing or comical manner. Often used as a sentence modifier to express the speaker's attitude toward a situation.
Examples
“The cat failed hilariously to jump onto the sofa.”
“The play was hilariously bad, with actors forgetting their lines and props falling over throughout the night.”
“The politician's attempt to appear relatable backfired hilariously when he failed to identify a single common grocery item during the televised interview.”
Examples
simple
“The cat failed hilariously to jump onto the sofa.”
contextual
“The play was hilariously bad, with actors forgetting their lines and props falling over throughout the night.”
complex
“The politician's attempt to appear relatable backfired hilariously when he failed to identify a single common grocery item during the televised interview.”
Usage
Can function as a manner adverb or a sentence adverb; in the latter case, it often appears at the start of a clause.
Real-World Examples
“It’s stuff that feels really fun to say.” Gamble can be hilariously revolting, but he’s not interested in being edgy.” Word family
NOUN
ADJECTIVE
ADVERB
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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