terribly
word · lemma: terrible
Definition
An adverb meaning 'very' or 'extremely,' especially in slightly formal or old-fashioned speech. It can also keep its literal sense of 'in a terrible way,' depending on context.
Usage & Nuances
Often used before adjectives: 'terribly sorry', 'terribly expensive', 'terribly kind'. In modern English, it can sound more formal, British, or old-fashioned than 'very'. Be careful: sometimes it means simple emphasis ('terribly busy'), and sometimes it means genuinely bad manner ('things went terribly wrong').
Example Sentences
This bag is terribly expensive.
basic
I am terribly sorry for being late.
basic
The little boy behaved terribly at school today.
basic
Thanks for checking in — that's terribly kind of you.
natural
We've been terribly busy this week, so let's talk tomorrow.
natural
Everything went terribly wrong after the power cut.
natural