dreadfully

[ dred-fuh-lee ]

adverb

1. in a dreadful way:

   The pain has increased dreadfully.

2. very; extremely:

   Sorry to be so dreadfully late.

dreadfully

/ ˈdrɛdfʊlɪ /

adverb

1. in a shocking, or disagreeable manner
2. (intensifier)

   you're dreadfully kind

Word History and Origins

Origin of dreadfully¹

1275–1325; Middle English. See dreadful, -ly

Example Sentences

Andrew Moll, the chief inspector of Marine Accidents, said it was a "cruel lesson of how rapidly things can go dreadfully wrong".

From BBC

The BBC approached Michael Ward at the Harrods headquarters and he said: "I am very dreadfully sorry for what has happened with Al Fayed."

From BBC

Amy Jones fell softly for seven by chipping a catch to point, Charlie Dean was unusually promoted to six and was dreadfully dropped first ball before departing for a skittish five while both Danielle Gibson and Sophie Ecclestone went for seven.

From BBC

"I suffered dreadfully and still do with my periods but was not diagnosed until my 40s."

From BBC

A statement issued by the Foreign Office said: “Their Majesties have asked us to convey that they continue to keep you and all hostage families in their special thoughts and offer their prayers for your strength and endurance during such a dreadfully difficult and agonising time for you.”

From BBC

Related Words

• disturbingly
• horribly
• shockingly
• terribly