poorly

word

/ˈpuɹɫi/
POOR-lee
/pˈɔːli/
PAW-lee

Definition

In a bad or unsatisfactory way; not done well. It can refer to low quality, lack of skill, or unhealthy condition.

Usage & Nuances

"Poorly" is an adverb, so it describes how something is done. Common collocations include "perform poorly", "poorly made", and "feel poorly" (meaning unwell, especially in British English). Do not confuse with "poor" (adjective for people or things).

Example Sentences

He did poorly on the exam.

basic

The soup was poorly cooked and tasted strange.

basic

The team played poorly and lost the match.

basic

I feel poorly today, so I'm staying home.

natural

The instructions were poorly written and hard to follow.

natural

Their house is poorly insulated, so it's always cold in winter.

natural