nastily
Học thuậtThân thiện
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
- in a nasty ill-tempered manner
- `Don't expect me to help you,' he added nastily