painfully

word · lemma: painful

Definition

In a way that causes physical or emotional pain, or in a way that is difficult or uncomfortable to experience.

Usage & Nuances

Often used for both physical and emotional pain, as well as to describe something very slow, awkward, or hard to watch ("painfully slow", "painfully shy"). Can intensify negative qualities, e.g., "painfully obvious" means extremely obvious.

Example Sentences

It's painfully obvious he doesn't want to be here.

natural

She is painfully shy at parties and barely speaks to anyone.

natural

She walked painfully after twisting her ankle.

basic

He smiled painfully, trying to hide his sadness.

basic

The homework was painfully difficult for her.

basic

The meeting moved painfully slow, and I kept checking the time.

natural