# painfully

**Pronunciation:** /ˈpeɪnfəli/ · PAYN-fuh-lee

**CEFR level:** B1

**Part of speech:** adverb

## Meaning 1: Description

In a way that causes physical or emotional suffering; causing great discomfort or distress.

## Examples

- He clutched his arm, his face contorted *painfully*.
- The economic downturn affected many families *painfully*.
- She realized *painfully* that she had made a terrible mistake.

## Meaning 2: Degree

To a very great or excessive degree; extremely.

## Examples

- The task was *painfully* difficult.
- He was *painfully* shy.
- The details were *painfully* clear.

## Synonyms

- sorely — Often used for emotional or difficult experiences.
- agonizingly — Emphasizes extreme suffering or difficulty.
- grievously — Suggests severe harm or distress.
- excruciatingly — Implies unbearable or intense pain.

## Antonyms

- comfortably — Without discomfort or difficulty.
- easily — Without effort or problems.
- pleasantly — In an agreeable or enjoyable way.

## Collocations

- painfully slow — The traffic was *painfully slow* this morning.
- painfully obvious — It was *painfully obvious* that he wasn't interested.
- painfully aware — She was *painfully aware* of her mistake.

Canonical URL: https://anaversity.com/dictionary/english/painfully

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