Meaning & Definition of Badly in English

Detailed Definitions

• Definition: In an unsatisfactory or unacceptable manner.

  Example Sentence: He performed badly on the exam.

• Definition: In or to a severe degree.

  Example Sentence: The situation was badly handled by the authorities.

• Definition: With much difficulty or effort.

  Example Sentence: She was badly in need of help.

Etymology

Origin: Middle English, from bad + -ly.

Synonyms

Common Phrases and Expressions

• badly off: In a poor or difficult situation.
• badly affected: Seriously impacted or harmed.
• badly mistaken: To hold an incorrect belief or assumption.

Translations

• Spanish: mal

• French: mal

• German: schlecht

• Russian: плохо

Related Words

• bad: Of poor quality; inferior.

• badness: The state or condition of being bad.

Slang Meanings of badly

• Meaning: To do something with little skill.

  Example Sentence: He played that song badly, out of tune and all.

• Meaning: In a manner that is not good enough.

  Example Sentence: She dressed badly for the occasion.