grossly

Grossly is an adverb derived from the adjective gross. It denotes an extreme degree or a manner that is coarse, offensive, or conspicuously incorrect. In everyday and formal writing, it most often functions as a strong intensifier before adjectives or participles, as in grossly inaccurate, grossly underfunded, or grossly negligent.

Etymology and form: the word arises from the adjective gross, with roots in Old French gros and Latin grossus, meaning thick, large, or coarse. The suffix -ly converts the adjective into an adverb, yielding grossly.

Usage and nuance: grossly is common in journalism, criticism, and legal contexts. In legal language, phrases like gross negligence describe a high degree of fault. In analysis and critique, grossly may signal clear distortion, failure, or mischaracterization. Because it conveys a strong evaluative stance, it can introduce bias or emotional weight; for a more neutral tone, writers may substitute extremely, significantly, or notably depending on precision.

Examples: The report was grossly inaccurate due to incomplete data. The plan was grossly underfunded, leaving essential parts unsupported. The prosecutor charged grossly negligent conduct, highlighting a marked disregard for safety.

See also: related intensifiers include extremely, markedly, egregiously, and severely, which offer varying degrees of emphasis without the same connotations as grossly.