Definition

Adverb: 1. In an unpleasant, spiteful, or mean-spirited way: Describes an action, especially speaking, done with the intent to hurt, offend, or show ill will. 2. In a disagreeable or offensive manner: Describes something done in a way that is highly unpleasant or causes disgust.

Usage

The adverb "nastily" is used to modify a verb, most commonly verbs related to speech or behavior, to indicate that the action was performed with nasty qualities such as malice, spite, or unpleasantness. It often describes a tone of voice or a manner of interacting.

Examples

• Modifying a verb of speaking:

  • "`Don't expect me to help you,' he added nastily." (He spoke those words with spite.)
  • She laughed nastily at his mistake. (Her laughter was mean and intended to mock.)
  • The critic nastily dismissed the artist's work. (The dismissal was harsh and offensive.)

• Modifying other actions:

  • The dispute ended nastily, with both parties shouting insults. (The ending was unpleasant and hostile.)
  • He nastily shoved the papers off the desk. (The shove was done with aggressive ill temper.)

Advanced Usage

• "to turn nasty/nastily": This phrasal construction describes a situation or a person's behavior becoming unpleasant, aggressive, or threatening. While "turn nasty" is more common, "nastily" can modify the verb in specific structures.
  • The debate turned nasty very quickly.
  • He turned on her nastily, accusing her of betrayal.

Variants and Related Words

• Nasty (adjective): The root adjective meaning very unpleasant, mean, or offensive.
  • A nasty smell; a nasty comment.
• Nastiness (noun): The quality or state of being nasty.
  • The sheer nastiness of his remark shocked everyone.

Synonyms

• Spitefully: With a desire to hurt, annoy, or offend.
• Meanly: In a cruel or unkind manner.
• Viciously: With cruel or violent aggression.
• Maliciously: With the intention to do harm.
• Unpleasantly: In a disagreeable manner.

Antonyms

• Kindly: In a kind, gentle manner.
• Pleasantly: In a pleasing or agreeable way.
• Politely: With good manners and courtesy.
• Benevolently: In a well-meaning and kindly way.

Adverb

1. in a nasty ill-tempered manner
   • `Don't expect me to help you,' he added nastily