acutely

[uh-kyoot-lee]

adverb

1. having a sharp, severe, or intense effect.

   Reductions in the workforce will be felt most acutely by those in entry-level jobs.

   Compounds formed by reaction with the contaminant create the potential for formation of acutely toxic products.

2. having an extremely great or serious effect; critically.

   The Iberian lynx is considered the most acutely endangered species of wildcat.

3. happening briefly or severely; happening at a single point in time (opposed tochronically ).

   The report describes a patient presenting acutely with mental symptoms of confusion and hallucinations.

   We studied the effects of field-realistic doses of the herbicide on honeybees exposed either chronically or acutely.

4. in a way that is intellectually penetrating or insightful; perceptively.

   In this acutely focused exhibition, the artist delves deeply into a single object: her kitchen sink.

5. in a way that is sensitive to even slight details or impressions.

   The orchestra matched the inspirational conductor beautifully, interacting and responding acutely.

Other Word Forms

• hyperacutely adverb
• nonacutely adverb
• overacutely adverb
• superacutely adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of acutely¹

acute ( def. ) + -ly

Example Sentences

The intention was that they would go to work in hospitals to support acutely ill patients but some were sent to do administration, to deliver parcels and to answer telephones, the inquiry heard.

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The Carney government is acutely aware of this pressure heading into Tuesday's meeting, Mr Robertson noted.

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But the loss of ice will be particularly acutely felt by mountain communities dependent on glaciers for fresh water.

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As I wheeled my cleaning trolley round the corridors, I was acutely aware of pleading faces peering out of bedrooms, hoping for a few minutes of company and conversation.

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The data centre industry is acutely aware that legislators are keeping an eye on the downsides of AI factories with their intense energy use having a potential impact on local infrastructure and the environment.

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Related Words

• keenly 
• severely