Definition

Adverb: 1. In a bold, impudent, or cheeky manner: Acting or speaking with excessive confidence or audacity, often in a way that shows a lack of respect or proper restraint.

Usage

The adverb "nervily" describes the manner of an action, specifically one performed with brashness or cheek. It modifies verbs to indicate that an action was done with audacious boldness. * It is typically used to describe speech or behavior that is surprisingly forward or presumptuous. * It often carries a slightly negative connotation, suggesting the action was inappropriately bold or disrespectful.

Examples

• The young intern nervily challenged the CEO's decision during the meeting.
• He walked nervily up to the famous actor and asked for an autograph without an introduction.
• She nervily demanded to see the manager, despite the clear store policy.

Advanced Usage

• "to act nervily": to behave with impudent boldness.
  • The protestor acted nervily by refusing to leave the premises.
• "to speak nervily": to talk in a brash, cheeky way.
  • The student spoke nervily to the professor, questioning his expertise.

Variants and Related Words

• Nervy (adjective): Having or showing boldness or effrontery; cheeky.
  • It was a nervy move to ask for a promotion after only one month.
• Brashly (adverb): In a self-assertive, impudent, or rash manner. (A close synonym used in the reference definition).
• Cheekily (adverb): In an impudently bold or disrespectful way.

Synonyms

• Audaciously: In a bold or daring manner, especially with disregard for personal risk or conventional thought.
• Impudently: In a manner showing a lack of respect; rudely bold.
• Boldly: In a confident and courageous way, showing a willingness to take risks. (This can be neutral or positive, whereas "nervily" is often negative).

Antonyms

• Timidly: In a manner showing a lack of courage or confidence.
• Respectfully: In a way that shows deference and esteem.
• Meekly: In a quiet, gentle, and submissive manner.

Adverb

1. in a brash cheeky manner
   • brashly, she asked for a rebate