Weakly - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Weakly means to do something with little strength, energy, or intensity. It can describe actions performed in a feeble or ineffective manner, such as speaking softly or moving without force.
Definition:
Lacking strength or vigor, done in a feeble or inadequate manner.
Synonyms:
feebly, faintly, softly, limply
Part of Speech:
adverb, adjective
Antonyms:
strongly, vigorously
Common Collocations:
weakly positive, weakly acidic, weakly bound, weakly interacting
Derivatives:
weakness, weaken, weakling
Usage Tips:
Use "weakly" to describe actions performed with little strength or intensity, often implying ineffectiveness.
Common Phrases:
weakly positive test result, weakly held belief, weakly linked argument
Etymology:
Derived from Old English "wāc," meaning pliant or soft; suffix "-ly" forms adverbs from adjectives.
Examples:
- 1. She smiled weakly after the long illness.
- 2. The magnet attracted the metal only weakly.
- 3. He protested weakly but gave in quickly.
- 4. The light shone weakly through the thick curtains.