B2adverb 2K

Severely

🇬🇧 UK /["/sɪˈvɪəli/"]/ 🇺🇸 US /["/sɪˈvɪrli/"]/

Meaning of Severely

very badly or seriously

In simple words: Very badly or seriously.

Severely in a sentence

• severely injured
• areas severely affected by unemployment
• The crops were severely damaged.
• Anyone breaking the law will be severely punished.
• a severely critical report
• Access to this information is severely restricted.
• He looked severely at me.
• Her patience was being severely tested.
• Her hair was tied severely in a bun.

How to use Severely

Used in both written and spoken English, often in serious contexts like health or conditions. Avoid using it in casual conversations unless the seriousness is implied.

Grammar pattern

severely + adjective/adverb

Memory hint

Think of 'severely' as 'severe-ly' — like an emergency that requires serious attention.

Related words

Collocations with Severely

• severely injured
• severely affected
• severely restricted
• severely limited
• severely punished

Synonyms for Severely

• harshly (1)
• sternly

Opposites of Severely

• mildly
• slightly

Common mistakes with Severely

• Using it in a casual context, which may sound exaggerated.
• Confusing it with 'severe' as a noun, which doesn't work.
• Misplacing it in a sentence, leading to awkward phrasing.

Frequently asked questions about Severely

What does Severely mean?

Very badly or seriously.

What is the definition of Severely?

very badly or seriously

How do you use Severely in a sentence?

severely injured

Can you give another example of Severely?

areas severely affected by unemployment

What are synonyms for Severely?

Common alternatives include harshly (1), sternly.

What is the opposite of Severely?

Opposite meanings include mildly, slightly.

What words go with Severely?

It commonly pairs with severely injured, severely affected, severely restricted, severely limited, severely punished.

What are common mistakes when using Severely?

Using it in a casual context, which may sound exaggerated. Confusing it with 'severe' as a noun, which doesn't work. Misplacing it in a sentence, leading to awkward phrasing.

How do you pronounce Severely?

US: /["/sɪˈvɪrli/"]/, UK: /["/sɪˈvɪəli/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Severely?

Used in both written and spoken English, often in serious contexts like health or conditions. Avoid using it in casual conversations unless the seriousness is implied.

What CEFR level is Severely?

"Severely" is at B2 level on the CEFR scale.