savagely
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /sˈævɪdʒli/
US
- /ˈsævɪdʒli/
Description
- fiercely
- brutally
- with violent force
Imagine a storm hitting the coast with full force. That feeling helps explain the word "savagely." It describes an action done in a very violent, cruel, or fierce way. An animal might savagely attack another animal. A person might be savagely beaten in a fight. A critic might also savagely attack a movie or idea with extremely harsh words.
It usually suggests more than simple anger or roughness. It points to force that feels uncontrolled, shocking, or merciless. The word is often negative, but it can also describe the violent power of nature, as when wind or waves strike savagely.
The word "savagely" paints a picture of extreme force and cruelty. It describes something done in a fierce, violent, or merciless way. Very often, it is used for physical attacks or injuries. If someone is savagely attacked, beaten, or bitten, the idea is that the act was shockingly brutal.
But the word is not limited to physical harm. People also use it for words, judgments, and reactions. A book may be savagely reviewed, a politician may be savagely mocked, or a bad decision may be savagely criticized. In these cases, no one is being physically hurt, but the language suggests an attack that is severe and unforgiving.
It can also describe the force of nature. Wind may blow savagely, rain may strike savagely, or the sea may pound the shore savagely. Here the word highlights violent power rather than cruelty in a human sense.
Most of the time, "savagely" has a strong negative tone. It suggests brutality, harshness, and a lack of mercy. So when you see this word, think of something happening with a level of force or cruelty that feels far beyond ordinary anger or roughness.
Examples
- 1
Violent attack
The man was savagely attacked in the street late at night.
- 2
Public criticism
The coach was savagely criticized after the team lost again.
- 3
Business cuts
When sales fell, the company savagely cut hundreds of jobs.
- 4
Satire
The novel savagely mocks the rich and powerful.
Pattern
savagely mock + person/group
make fun of them in a very cruel, sharp way
- 5
Blunt honesty
She gave me a savagely honest answer when I asked about my speech.
Pattern
savagely honest
honest in a very direct way that can hurt
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- savagelyadverb