DESPERATELY Synonyms: 138 Similar and Opposite Words

desperately

adverb

ˈde-sp(ə-)rət-lē

Definition of desperately

as in extremely

to a great degree all of a sudden everything went desperately wrong

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of desperately Not just for prospective suitors, but also for a Yankees team that desperately needs offense and help in the outfield. — Gary Phillips, New York Daily News, 1 Aug. 2026 By the high point of the episode, the reaction that the residents of the Silo are desperately waiting to see is Juliette’s. — Daron James, IndieWire, 31 July 2026 But the groom is set to tie the knot after having spent this entire week desperately trying to keep his fund afloat. — Eva Roytburg, Fortune, 31 July 2026 Survivors spoke about coming home and desperately pulling family members out of the wreckage. — CBS News, 30 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for desperately

Recent Examples of Synonyms for desperately

Adverb

The wildfires broke out over the weekend across the Spokane area, fueled by very strong winds combined with extremely dry conditions.

— Melissa Griffin, ABC News, 3 Aug. 2026
However, experts say that legal decision was extremely narrow, with some arguing it was likely misinterpreted by migrants and traffickers.

— Issy Ronald, CNN Money, 3 Aug. 2026

Definition of extremely

Adverb

Unfortunately, decisions aren’t terribly effective today and according to Gartner 72% of executives say that bad decisions are as prevalent as good ones.

— Tracy Brower, Forbes.com, 27 July 2026
Given that humans at OpenAI had decided to turn off some safeguards for the test, some have argued the outcome should not have been terribly surprising.

— ABC News, ABC News, 23 July 2026

Definition of terribly

Adverb

But, positioned 11th in the GC before the mountains, Włodarczyk is not riding badly and could yet pull out some great performances.

— Jessica Hopkins, New York Times, 4 Aug. 2026
The whole thing reminded me so much of Willow, when Kael’s forces arrive at Tir Asleen and Madmartigan tries to act tough and intimidating despite being badly outnumbered.

— Erik Kain, Forbes.com, 3 Aug. 2026

Definition of badly

Adverb

Not being able to interact with computers, smartphones, and other smart devices is incredibly limiting, yet many existing assistive devices are reportedly awkward, uncomfortable, or difficult to use for long periods.

— Maryna Holovnova, New Atlas, 3 Aug. 2026
Pair them with the Corn Boats so your cob doesn't roll away; the incredibly handy Corn Stripper, which removes kernels from the cob in one smooth, easy motion; and the Corn Brush, which removes stubborn corn silk easily.

— ABC News, ABC News, 3 Aug. 2026

Definition of incredibly

Adverb

Veejay is a great model and sells Naheim’s and Jeffrey’s outfits, which are both really fashionable and exciting; Jeffrey’s burgundy suit is very femme-fatale Ursula.

— Roxana Hadadi, Vulture, 31 July 2026
Moore has earned the praise after having a very strong spring.

— Mike Kaye July 31, Charlotte Observer, 31 July 2026

Definition of very

Adverb

Chicken satay with a restrained peanut sauce is a solid choice, too.

— Connie Ogle July 31, Miami Herald, 31 July 2026
Like Rominger, Crowfoot said the ESA can at times be too heavy handed, and said there was always room to tweak the law, particularly in an era where California is confronting a cost of living crisis some pin on regulations restricting growth.

— Lizzie Kane, Sacbee.com, 31 July 2026

Definition of too

Adverb

Energy is a key input into many goods and services given its broad use across the economy and so higher prices may fuel inflation.

— Simon Moore, Forbes.com, 30 July 2026
Under Georgia law, a judge can decide whether a defendant serves that sentence in prison or on probation, so Colin Gray could be released Thursday.

— Eric Levenson, CNN Money, 30 July 2026

Definition of so

Adverb

Vogue’s Favorite Korean Skin-Care Products So when thinking about the ingredients that really define K-beauty in 2026, experts say to look at the ones that take it back to the basics.

— Audrey Noble, Vogue, 4 Aug. 2026
Otherwise, actors really do have to pucker up and act professional when filming an intimate scene.

— Brianna Zigler, Entertainment Weekly, 3 Aug. 2026

Definition of really

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desperate

desperately

desperateness

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“Desperately.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/desperately. Accessed 5 Aug. 2026.

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Synonyms of desperately

adverb

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