sadly

American  

[sad-lee] / ˈsæd li /

adverb

1. in an unhappy, sorrowful, or regretful way; unfortunately; regrettably.

   Gun tracing is an attempt to answer the sadly common question of where the gun used in a crime came from.

   Sadly, the tourism and money brought in by the World Cup games won't benefit the people who need it most.

---

Usage

What does sadly mean? Sadly means in an unhappy, sorrowful, or regretful way, as in Whenever my dog looks at me sadly, I can’t help but cuddle him.Sadly is frequently used to mean unfortunately, as in Sadly, he could not make the game today. This usage often gives a more emotional or sympathetic tone to a statement. It’s often used for disappointments, excuses, reports of loss, and any other scenario where something could be upsetting to the listener or reader.Example: We report sadly that we were unable to reach our financial goals this quarter.

Etymology

Origin of sadly

sad ( def. ) + -ly

Example Sentences

"We saw the police stand by and do nothing and, sadly, we've seen that from that moment on hate was allowed to fester."

From Barron's

Britain has sadly declined as a force in international affairs, but there’s an opportunity now for Mr. Starmer to reclaim some of its lost reputation.

From The Wall Street Journal

"I have a feeling that quite a number of people within the next couple of months, are going to drop out of that desire to be at the next World Cup. Sadly. So sadly."

From BBC

"This has been a long hard fight to get to this day and the inquiry ahead will be painful but sadly it is very necessary," he said.

From BBC

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said he sent his "deepest sympathy and condolences to the family of the member of our armed forces who sadly lost their life today".

From BBC

Related Words

• wistfully