acutely

[ uh-kyoot-lee ]

adverb

1. having a sharp, severe, or intense effect:

   Reductions in the workforce will be felt most acutely by those in entry-level jobs.

   Compounds formed by reaction with the contaminant create the potential for formation of acutely toxic products.

2. having an extremely great or serious effect; critically:

   The Iberian lynx is considered the most acutely endangered species of wildcat.

3. happening briefly or severely; happening at a single point in time (opposed to chronically ):

   The report describes a patient presenting acutely with mental symptoms of confusion and hallucinations.

   We studied the effects of field-realistic doses of the herbicide on honeybees exposed either chronically or acutely.

4. in a way that is intellectually penetrating or insightful; perceptively:

   In this acutely focused exhibition, the artist delves deeply into a single object: her kitchen sink.

5. in a way that is sensitive to even slight details or impressions:

   The orchestra matched the inspirational conductor beautifully, interacting and responding acutely.

Other Words From

• hy·per·a·cute·ly adverb
• non·a·cute·ly adverb
• o·ver·a·cute·ly adverb
• su·per·a·cute·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of acutely¹

acute ( def ) + -ly

Example Sentences

In recent decades, the populations of many vulture species declined sharply and are now acutely threatened with extinction.

From Science Daily

Mice which had been placed in an acutely stressful, controlled experience exhibited defensive behavior regardless of which sound was played to them, suggesting that the stressful experience interfered with their ability to form specific memories.

From Science Daily

Amorim is acutely aware of this which is why he is playing down the expectations that rose so dramatically in the wake of Sporting’s defeat of Manchester City last week.

From BBC

In swing states, voters are feeling the outsized attention acutely.

From Los Angeles Times

If you live in the Southwest, chances are you are acutely aware of this.

From Salon

Related Words

• keenly
• severely