harshly

Harshly is an adverb describing an action performed in a severe, rough, or unkind manner. It is typically used to modify verbs such as speak, judge, critique, punish, or treat, and it can also describe the manner in which something is spoken or written. The sense conveyed is one of severity or lack of gentleness.

Usage notes: Harshly often appears in contexts of criticism, discipline, or tough conditions. Examples include: “The critic spoke harshly of the manuscript,” or “She treated him harshly.” It can describe environmental or physical conditions, but in formal prose it may feel less natural than alternatives like severely or sternly.

Etymology and form: Harshly is formed from the adjective harsh by adding the -ly suffix to create an adverb. The adjective harsh has Germanic roots meaning rough or severe, and the adverb inherits that sense. Comparative forms include more harshly and most harshly; in many contexts, however, more precise verbs or adverbs such as severely, rudely, or sternly may convey the intended nuance more clearly.

Style and nuance: Harshly emphasizes a sense of severity and lack of softness. In neutral or technical writing, authors may choose stronger or more precise verbs to avoid over-reliance on adverbs. In narrative or evaluative writing, harshly can help convey tone and character judgment when appropriate.