Negatively
/ˈnɛɡətɪvli/
Definitions
2 meaningsIn a way that expresses disapproval, pessimism, or denial; in a way that has an adverse or harmful effect.
/ˈnɛɡətɪvli/
In a way that expresses or implies a denial, disagreement, or prohibition.
The reviews were overwhelmingly negative.
💡 Simply: It means something's not good, or it's bad for you. Like, if someone says something mean, you might feel negatively about it.
👶 For kids: It means in a way that's not good or makes things worse.
More Examples
The impact on the environment was significant and negatively affected the local wildlife.
The judge ruled negatively on the motion.
How It's Used
"The findings were interpreted negatively by the scientific community."
"The company's stock price reacted negatively to the announcement."
"She was affected negatively by her childhood experiences."
In a way that denies or contradicts something; in a way that expresses the absence of something. Also, used to describe a statement or action that expresses a refusal or denial
/ˈnɛɡətɪvli/
In a way that denies or contradicts something; in a way that expresses the absence of something.
The answer was phrased negatively.
💡 Simply: It means saying 'no' or that something isn't there. Like if someone asks if you have a cookie, and you say negatively, you are saying you don't have one.
👶 For kids: Saying no or that something is not there.
More Examples
The test results came back negatively; they showed no signs of the disease.
The proposal was voted down negatively.
How It's Used
"The statement was worded negatively, making it difficult to understand."
"She formed the sentence negatively, using 'not' to negate the action."
Idioms & expressions
think negatively
To have a pessimistic or critical outlook.
"It's important not to think negatively about the future."
react negatively
To respond unfavorably or adversely to something.
"The body may react negatively to new medications."
From 'negative' + '-ly'. 'Negative' comes from the Latin 'negativus', meaning 'denying' or 'refusing'.
The use of 'negatively' has evolved along with the understanding and application of the word 'negative'.
Memory tip
Think of a negative sign (-) and how it reduces or opposes something.
Word Origin
"denying, refusing"