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Definition of adversely
adversely
/ædˈvɝːs.li/
ad · verse · ly
Adjective:adverse
adversely Lexical Profile
CEFR
B2
Grade
8
Tier
2
Usage
Top 5k
Syllables
3
adversely Game Scores & Validity
Scrabble US
Scrabble UK
WWF
Wordle Guess
• adverb
1
In a way that prevents success or development; harmfully or unfavorably.
Example
"Prolonged drought can adversely affect agricultural yields across the entire region."
Synonyms
View all synonyms for adversely Antonyms
View all antonyms for adverselyWord Nuance & Usage
Do not confuse 'adversely' (harmfully or unfavorably) with 'aversely' (with reluctance or strong disinclination). 'Adversely' most commonly modifies verbs of impact or judgment, as in 'adversely affect'.
• Rhymes for adversely
Word Origin & Etymology
Formed in Middle English from the adjective 'adverse' (from Old French 'advers' and Latin 'adversus', meaning 'turned against' or 'hostile') plus the adverbial suffix '-ly'.
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Adversely. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/adversely