A2adverb2K

Badly

UK /["/ˈbædli/"]/US /["/ˈbædli/"]/

Definition

without skill or care

In simple words: In a way that is not good or not right.

Examples

  • He sings badly, but he enjoys it.
  • The project was managed badly, leading to many errors.
  • I feel badly about missing the meeting.
  • She was treated badly by the staff at the hotel.
  • He drives badly, often getting into accidents.

Usage notes

Use 'badly' to describe how something is done poorly. It's appropriate in most casual contexts but can feel less formal. Avoid when the tone is serious, where alternatives like 'inadequately' might be better.

Grammar pattern

badly + verb

Memory hint

Imagine someone singing badly and causing the audience to cringe.

Collocations

  • perform badly
  • work badly
  • behave badly

Synonyms

  • poorly
  • awfully
  • terribly
  • subpar

Antonyms

  • well
  • adequately
  • efficiently

Common mistakes

  • 'Bad' vs 'badly': Confusing the adjective (bad) with the adverb (badly).
  • Using 'badly' with nouns instead of verbs.
  • Saying 'bad' when needing to describe manner; should use 'badly'.