Harshly

/ˈhɑːrʃli/

Meaning & Definition

adverb

In a severe or cruel manner.

The teacher spoke harshly to the students who were misbehaving.

In a way that is unpleasantly severe or difficult.

The weather has been harshly cold this winter, making it hard to go outside.

With a strong emphasis on criticism or disapproval.

She was criticized harshly for her lack of preparation before the meeting.

In a manner that is sharp, grating, or jarring to the senses.

The sound of the car horn pierced the night air harshly, waking up the entire neighborhood.

In a way that lacks softness or gentleness.

The artist painted the landscape harshly, capturing the ruggedness of the terrain.

From harsh + -ly

harshly criticizes

To express strong disapproval in a severe manner.

harshly treated

To be subjected to cruel or severe conditions.

judge harshly

To evaluate or assess with severity.

harsh

Severe or cruel; unpleasantly rough.

harshness

The quality of being harsh.

Tough love

Sometimes, you have to be harshly real with someone to help them.

Throwing shade

She was harshly throwing shade with her comments about his outfit.