hysterically

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "hysterically" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something done in an exaggerated or uncontrollable manner, often related to laughter or emotion. Example: "She was laughing hysterically at the comedian's jokes, unable to catch her breath."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They're all operating at such a hysterically shrill frequency that even being in the same building as them will ruin your blood pressure.

The Guardian

Then I had to redo the line after which my character is supposed to laugh and then cry hysterically.

The Guardian

Whenever something goes wrong, which, since the programme is a situation comedy, it routinely does, Corporal Jones rushes around hysterically hollering at his comrades, "Don't panic!

The Economist

"The Italians stormed the city halls; the Germans stormed the beer halls," went the saying.During the first world war, parts of America grew hysterically anti-German.

The Economist

The fact remains that she giggled hysterically when in the company of her in-laws, refused to eat and took to going to bed with her maidservant.

The Economist

"Boom!" Muhammad shouts suddenly, laughing hysterically at our shock before the smile drifts off his face and his gaze turns to his youngest son and then to the floor.

The Economist

Businessmen have reacted hysterically, crying recession and lobbying for devaluation, tariff protection and cheap credit.

The Economist

"If we were confident about our faith we wouldn't have to react so hysterically".

The Economist

They may have been swayed by their party bosses, who then as now hysterically oppose open primaries as though they spelled the death of political parties.Since then, however, California has descended into a seemingly endless budget crisis and partisan gridlock.

The Economist

He claims that the Tories have lately become "hysterically" Europhobic and xenophobic.

The Economist

Vaccination against this disease has become controversial in effete Western circles because of the malign effects of one or two hysterically reported scientific studies which suggested (wrongly, it is now believed) that the vaccine might occasionally be hazardous.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "hysterically" when you want to convey a sense of uncontrolled or exaggerated emotion, particularly laughter or crying. Be mindful of the context to ensure it doesn't trivialize serious situations.

Common error

Avoid using "hysterically" in formal or academic writing where a more neutral or precise term would be more appropriate. Words like "intensely" or "uncontrollably" might be better choices.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "hysterically" is as an adverb. It modifies verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs to describe the manner in which an action is performed, emphasizing its uncontrolled and exaggerated nature. As Ludwig AI confirms, it correctly follows standard grammar rules.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

84%

Encyclopedias

3%

Science

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "hysterically" functions as an adverb used to describe actions performed with uncontrolled and exaggerated emotion. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness. It's frequently found in News & Media sources, conveying strong emotional responses, though its suitability in formal contexts should be carefully considered. When seeking alternatives, phrases like "uncontrollably" or "wildly" can offer similar meanings. Remember to use "hysterically" judiciously to avoid trivializing serious situations, as demonstrated in the Ludwig examples.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in a fit of hysteria

Rephrases the term using a noun phrase, directly referencing hysteria.

uncontrollably

Focuses on the lack of control in the behavior.

wildly

Emphasizes the unrestrained nature of the action.

unrestrainedly

Highlights the lack of boundaries or limits on the expression of emotion.

frantically

Highlights the sense of urgency and desperation.

maniacally

Suggests a more extreme, almost insane level of intensity.

in a frenzy

Implies a state of agitation and excitement.

deliriously

Conveys a sense of being overcome by emotion, possibly to the point of incoherence.

convulsively

Emphasizes the physical, jerky movements associated with intense emotion.

with excessive emotion

A more general term indicating an over-the-top emotional response.

FAQs

How is "hysterically" used in a sentence?

"Hysterically" is typically used as an adverb to modify verbs, describing how an action is performed in an uncontrolled or exaggerated manner. For example, "She laughed hysterically" or "He cried hysterically".

What are some synonyms for "hysterically"?

Alternatives to "hysterically" include "uncontrollably", "wildly", "frantically", or "maniacally". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "hysterically"?

Use "hysterically" when you wish to emphasize the uncontrolled and often exaggerated nature of an emotional response. It's suitable when describing laughter, crying, or other expressions of intense emotion.

What's the difference between "hysterically" and "excitedly"?

"Hysterically" implies a loss of control and an exaggerated emotional state, while "excitedly" suggests enthusiasm and eagerness without necessarily losing control. The difference lies in the intensity and the degree of control over the emotion.