harshly

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "harshly" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an action that is done in a severe or strict manner, often in relation to criticism or treatment of someone or something. Example: "The teacher spoke harshly to the students after they failed to complete their assignments on time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"In the last two years we were very harshly done because away from home... if you look at our record in Germany, we have not lost here for a long time.

The Guardian - Sport

Rather harshly, the referee gives Germany a free-kick for handball.

The Guardian - Sport

It feels mean-spirited to criticise Electro Velvet too harshly for this.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Moreno converted the spot-kick after Venezuela keeper Gilberto Angelucci had been harshly adjudged to have brought the striker down.

The Guardian - Sport

As part of list of justifications condemned as heartless by family representatives, an official has told the potential donor: "You come from an area harshly affected by the civil war in this country.

The Guardian

It would be unfair to judge the Brazilian too harshly when he is clearly some way from peak match fitness, but his prospects of recovering top condition quickly took a blow when he left the game with a muscle complaint shortly after half-time.

The Guardian - Sport

An ambassador was harshly criticized in 2012 for breaking this rule in the same manner Clinton did and subsequently fired in part for using a private email account at work.

The Guardian

Politicians and entrepreneurs who have opposed Putin have been treated harshly, underscored by the long imprisonment of billionaire Mikhail Khodorkovsky.

The Guardian

Managing 80% possession and 26 shots, United forced Boaz Myhill into, at most, three out-of-the-ordinary saves, including a second-half penalty stop that denied Robin van Persie after Saido Berahino had harshly been judged to have handled inside the area.

The Guardian - Sport

But I definitely will discipline her harshly depending on what the situation is".

The Guardian - Sport

As time passed, the players were judged less harshly.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "harshly" when you want to emphasize the severity or lack of compassion in an action or judgment. Consider the emotional impact your word choice has on the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "harshly" in overly casual situations where a less formal adverb like "strongly" or "firmly" might be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The adverb "harshly" primarily functions to modify verbs, indicating the manner in which an action is performed. Ludwig shows that it describes actions done with severity or a lack of compassion. For example, someone might be ""harshly" criticized" or ""harshly" judged".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "harshly" is an adverb used to describe actions performed with notable severity or a lack of compassion. Ludwig AI confirms that this word is grammatically sound and frequently employed, especially within News & Media and Formal & Business contexts. Alternatives such as "severely" or "sternly" can be used depending on the desired nuance. When writing, ensure that "harshly" aligns with the intended tone and formality of the context, avoiding overuse in casual settings. Understanding its implications can greatly refine your writing and make it as impactful as intended.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

severely

Focuses on the intensity or degree of strictness.

sternly

Emphasizes a firm and uncompromising manner.

strictly

Highlights adherence to rules or standards without deviation.

critically

Emphasizes a negative or fault-finding assessment.

roughly

Suggests a lack of gentleness or care in treatment.

acrimoniously

Implies bitterness and resentment in the manner.

bitterly

Emphasizes deep sadness or resentment.

unsparingly

Highlights the absence of leniency or mercy.

ruthlessly

Focuses on a lack of compassion or pity.

with undue severity

Emphasizes that something is harsher than necessary or appropriate.

FAQs

How can I use "harshly" in a sentence?

Use "harshly" to describe actions or judgments performed with severity or a lack of compassion. For instance, "The critic judged the play "harshly"" or "The new regulations were "harshly" enforced".

What are some alternatives to "harshly"?

Depending on the nuance you want to convey, consider alternatives like "severely", "sternly", or "strictly". Each carries a slightly different connotation related to the manner or degree of strictness.

Is it better to use "harshly" or "severely"?

"Harshly" often implies a lack of empathy or compassion, while "severely" emphasizes the degree or intensity of the action or judgment. Choose the word that best fits the intended emotional tone and context.

When is it appropriate to use "harshly" in writing?

Use "harshly" when you want to highlight the stringent or unyielding nature of an action, policy, or criticism. It's suitable when describing consequences or judgments that are particularly severe or lack leniency.