earnestly

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "earnestly" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a situation in which someone is expressing a sincere, serious, or intense intention to do something. For example: She earnestly implored the jury to find her innocent.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It is earnestly to be hoped that his successor gets it too.

The Guardian - Opinion

"While I was on board I soon realised that the boot room, where we all changed our clothing and left our shoes, had turned into a scene of social chaos," McEwan said, describing how the eminent scientists, who down the hall were gathering to talk earnestly about the future of the humankind, were also capable of stealing each others' footwear and regarding their colleagues with deep distrust.

The Guardian - Books

But when Imlay abandoned her, she wrote to her friend Amelia Alderson that she "earnestly desired to resign a name which seemed to disgrace me".

The Guardian - Books

Here, grown men talk earnestly about dog poo: "Feed your dog this and it will live longer, have a great coat, good teeth and great energy," says Davies.

The Guardian - Business

Hearing such avowals earnestly delivered by the besotted title character of "Charlie Countryman" to his tough Romanian dream girl, you don't know whether to laugh or to wince.

The New York Times

One fellow competitor earnestly advises me to stick corn plasters over my nipples if I don't want the front of my vest "looking like a bloody Japanese flag".

The Guardian - Travel

One minute she is theorising earnestly about the difference between Germany and Britain's postwar traumas, the next she is giggling as if she's just caught herself auditioning for Pseuds Corner: "I wonder what status being the victor gives to the trauma.

The Guardian

It is really painful when they don't listen to us, when they don't want to understand," says 17-year-old group member Deepa earnestly.

The Guardian

In one of our conversations, when we had already come to know each other well and were talking amicably, though as always, earnestly, I asked her why she felt so comfortable sitting on a nuclear powder keg.

The Guardian

It is hardest on the women who have worked so earnestly for the vote, and who cherished the illusion that when they got it they would put the right man in.

The Guardian

He mashes his knees together earnestly.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "earnestly" to convey a strong sense of sincerity and commitment. It is most effective when you want to emphasize the genuine nature of an action or statement.

Common error

Avoid using "earnestly" in very casual conversations or informal writing, as it can sound overly formal or theatrical. Opt for simpler synonyms like "sincerely" or "really" in those situations.

Linguistic Context

Earnestly functions as an adverb, modifying verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs to emphasize the sincerity and genuineness of an action or feeling. Ludwig AI confirms this usage, showing it commonly modifies verbs of communication or belief.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

Earnestly is a versatile adverb used to convey sincerity and seriousness. As Ludwig AI confirms, it typically modifies verbs, emphasizing the genuine nature of actions or beliefs. While appropriate for formal and professional contexts, it should be used sparingly in casual conversation to avoid sounding overly theatrical. Alternatives like "sincerely" or "seriously" may be more suitable in informal settings. Common sources such as The Guardian, The Economist, and The New York Times demonstrate its frequent use in news and media. By understanding its nuances and appropriate contexts, writers can effectively use "earnestly" to enhance their communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sincerely

Focuses more on genuineness of feeling.

seriously

Emphasizes the gravity of the action or statement.

ardently

Suggests passionate enthusiasm and zeal.

fervently

Implies intense emotion and dedication.

zealously

Highlights enthusiastic and diligent effort.

wholeheartedly

Indicates complete commitment and enthusiasm.

genuinely

Underscores the authenticity and truthfulness.

conscientiously

Highlights diligent and careful effort.

diligently

Emphasizes persistent and careful effort.

with great sincerity

More verbose, stressing the depth of feeling.

FAQs

How can I use "earnestly" in a sentence?

"Earnestly" is typically used as an adverb to modify a verb, adjective, or another adverb. For instance, "She "earnestly apologized" for her mistake" or "He "earnestly believed" in their cause."

What are some alternatives to using "earnestly"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "sincerely", "seriously", or "ardently" to convey a similar sense of sincerity or intensity.

Is it correct to use "earnestly" in formal writing?

Yes, "earnestly" is perfectly appropriate for formal writing when you want to emphasize a sincere and serious intention or effort. It adds a layer of depth and commitment to your message.

What is the difference between "earnestly" and "eagerly"?

"Earnestly" implies a deep sincerity and seriousness, whereas "eagerly" suggests enthusiasm and anticipation. For example, you might "earnestly" plead for forgiveness, but "eagerly" await a vacation.