Sadly
/ˈsædli/
Definitions
In a manner that conveys unhappiness, sorrow, or regret.
/ˈsædli/
In a way that expresses or causes sorrow; unfortunately.
Sadly, the cake fell on the floor just before the party.
💡 Simply: When you're describing something that makes you feel unhappy or disappointed. Like, 'Sadly, I missed the bus.'
👶 For kids: When something makes you feel a little bit unhappy.
More Examples
The team played badly, and sadly, they lost the game.
Sadly, her trip was cancelled at the last minute.
How It's Used
"Sadly, the concert was canceled due to bad weather."
"The hero, sadly, met a tragic end."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
sad but true
Expressing the acceptance of an unpleasant fact.
"The weather is terrible for the picnic, but sad but true, we can't change it."
From Old English *sædig (sad), with the addition of the adverbial suffix -ly.
The adverb 'sadly' has been used in English since the early modern period, showing a consistent association with expressions of sorrow and regret.
Memory tip
Think of someone with a *sad* face, but *ly* added means they are doing something in a way that shows sadness.
Word Origin
"filled with sorrow or regret"