B2adverb2K

Severely

UK /["/sɪˈvɪəli/"]/US /["/sɪˈvɪrli/"]/

Definition

very badly or seriously

In simple words: Very badly or seriously.

Examples

  • 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.

Usage notes

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.

Collocations

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

Synonyms

  • harshly (1)
  • sternly

Antonyms

  • mildly
  • slightly

Common mistakes

  • 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.