poorly

[poor-lee]

adverb

1. in a poor manner or way.

   The team played poorly.

adjective

1. in poor health; somewhat ill.

   I hear she's been poorly.

poorly

/ ˈpɔː-, ˈpʊəlɪ /

adverb

1. in a poor way or manner; badly

adjective

1. informal,  (usually postpositive) in poor health; rather ill

   she's poorly today

Word History and Origins

Origin of poorly¹

First recorded in 1250–1300, poorly is from the Middle English word pourely. See poor, -ly

Example Sentences

But it was obvious something was off last spring when he played poorly in lethargic Nations League losses to Canada and Panama.

From Los Angeles Times

As her party's conference kicks off in Manchester, Badenoch is facing questions about her first year as leader which has seen the party perform poorly in the polls and in local elections.

From BBC

The defensive game plan was poorly conceived and stubbornly inflexible.

From Los Angeles Times

Many young people, facing insecure and poorly paid jobs, have called for the president's resignation, blaming him for the problems they are facing.

From BBC

Health and safety regulations are poorly enforced in Ethiopia and construction disasters are common.

From BBC

Related Words

• badly 
• crudely 
• inadequately www.thesaurus.com
• insufficiently www.thesaurus.com