Debolmente

Debolmente is an Italian adverb meaning “in a weak or feeble manner.” It is formed from the adjective debole (weak) with the adverbial suffix -mente.

Etymology and usage context: The term derives from the Latin word debilis, meaning weak. In Italian, debole gives rise to the adverb debolmente, which has a literary or archaic flavor and is not commonly used in everyday speech. When more common style is preferred, speakers may instead describe an action as performed “in modo debole” or choose other expressions such as “poco” or “con mancanza di forza,” depending on the nuance.

Grammatical notes: Debolmente functions as an adverb and typically modifies verbs, indicating the manner of an action. It can describe physical weakness, lack of vigor, or insufficient intensity in behavior, voice, or effort. For example: Parlò debolmente, senza fiducia. The usage tends to appear in historical texts, literary writings, or formal diction rather than contemporary informal Italian.

Related terms: The base adjective is debole, meaning weak. Related adverbs expressing manner with similar suffixes include facilmente (easily) and lentamente (slowly). In modern Italian, writers often opt for less archaic formulations such as “in modo debole” or more precise descriptors of strength or conviction.

See also: Debole, Italian adverbs of manner, Italian linguistic registers, Lexical notes on adverb formation.