adv
Uncommon
harshly
HAHSH-lee
Harshly (adv) means In a severe, rough, or unkind way. Example: “The referee was criticized for judging the match too harshly.”
adv
1
In a severe, rough, or unkind way.
"The referee was criticized for judging the match too harshly."
"He spoke harshly to the new intern."
How to use harshly
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishIn a harsh manner.
Common pairings
judge harshly
speak harshly
treated harshly
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Word forms
- Comparative
- harshlier, more harshly
- Superlative
- harshliest, most harshly
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The referee was criticized for judging the match too _____.
Etymology
From harsh plus the adverb-forming suffix -ly.
Synonyms
View more →
gratingly
raspingly
Related words
Frequently asked questions
What does “harshly” mean?
The word “harshly” means in a severe, rough, or unkind way. In plain terms, in a harsh manner.
How do you pronounce “harshly”?
“Harshly” is pronounced HAHSH-lee (/ˈhɑːʃli/ in IPA).
How do you use “harshly” in a sentence?
Here is “harshly” used in a sentence: “The referee was criticized for judging the match too harshly.”
What part of speech is “harshly”?
“Harshly” is an adverb.
Is “harshly” a common word?
“Harshly” is an uncommon word in modern English.
